NBA Report: JR Smith Pushes Knicks to Rehire ‘Unbelievable Coach’ in Bold U-Turn Move

NBA Report: JR Smith Pushes Knicks to Rehire ‘Unbelievable Coach’ in Bold U-Turn Move

Former New York Knicks shooting guard and NBA champion JR Smith has weighed in on the team’s ongoing search for a new head coach — and in a surprising twist, he’s backing a return for recently fired coach Tom Thibodeau.

The Knicks are currently navigating a pivotal moment in their franchise trajectory following Thibodeau’s dismissal despite a successful campaign that saw the team reach the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in 25 years. The front office has explored multiple options, but attempts to lure coaches from rival NBA teams — including a high-profile rejection in their pursuit of Dallas Mavericks head coach Jason Kidd — have hit roadblocks. Interviews with candidates like Taylor Jenkins, Mike Brown, and James Borrego have been ongoing, but none has emerged as a surefire upgrade.

In an interview with WFAN during Fanatics Fest, Smith addressed the uncertainty surrounding the coaching decision. When asked if the Knicks should consider rehiring Thibodeau, his response was clear, albeit cautious: “That would be wishful thinking. It’s so hard once you fire a guy, it’s hard to bring him back.”

Still, the former Knicks standout expressed firm support for the idea. “I’ve seen two coaches in my career get fired and go back to the same organization,” Smith said. “I think it would be a great move for the Knicks. Thibs is an unbelievable coach. He did a really good job with what he had.”

Smith’s comments highlight the respect Thibodeau continues to command among former players, even after his dismissal. Under his leadership, the Knicks amassed 51 wins last season and rekindled hope among the fan base that had long grown used to mediocrity. While the playoff run ultimately ended in a second-round loss to the Indiana Pacers, the excitement Thibodeau brought back to Madison Square Garden was palpable.

JR Smith, who played for the Knicks from 2011 to 2015, knows what it’s like to experience the highs and lows of playing in New York. His endorsement of Thibodeau reflects both personal insight and an understanding of the unique expectations that come with wearing the Knicks jersey. “The Knicks and the Knicks fans always expect a win,” he said. “This is the most exciting it’s been since 2013.”

Despite Smith’s enthusiasm, a return for Thibodeau remains unlikely. Once a team dismisses a coach, especially after a postseason run, front offices rarely reverse course. The Knicks may feel it’s necessary to bring in new leadership to take the next step, especially after making the bold decision to part ways with Thibodeau in the first place.

Still, JR Smith’s comments echo the thoughts of many fans who appreciated the grit, structure, and culture that Thibodeau instilled. Whether the front office will reconsider its stance is unknown, but the former coach’s legacy remains firmly intact.

As the Knicks continue to evaluate their coaching options, Smith’s endorsement adds an intriguing layer to the conversation — and perhaps, just a flicker of hope for an unexpected reunion.