Celtics Monitor Ime Udoka’s Potential Move to Knicks
In a surprising turn of events, the New York Knicks recently parted ways with head coach Tom Thibodeau, casting their gaze toward potential replacements, including former Celtics coach Ime Udoka. According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Knicks are interested in interviewing Udoka, who currently coaches the Houston Rockets under a four-year contract he signed in 2023. Despite the Rockets’ successful campaign this past season—finishing 52-30 and securing the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference—Stein suggests that any request to speak with Udoka would likely be denied by Houston.
The Knicks, who enjoyed their most successful playoff run in 25 years—defeating the defending champion Celtics and reaching the Eastern Conference Finals—are now re-evaluating their coaching strategy after back-to-back 50-win seasons. Notably, Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns are returning to the squad, indicating the franchise’s commitment to maintaining a competitive roster.
Udoka, who led the Celtics to the NBA Finals against the Golden State Warriors in 2022, has also garnered interest from Dallas Mavericks’ Jason Kidd, another candidate for the Knicks’ head coach position. Both coaches have previously played for New York, adding to the intrigue surrounding their potential return to the franchise.
If the Knicks pursue Udoka and manage to hire him, it will mark the fourth Atlantic Division team he has coached, highlighting his extensive experience in the NBA.
As the Celtics grapple with offseason decisions, including the crucial retention of players like Derrick White, the potential shift of Udoka back into the Eastern Conference could reshape the competitive landscape in the coming season.
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