New York Knicks Continue Coaching Search by Targeting Another Minnesota Timberwolves Assistant in Aggressive Pursuit of New Leadership Direction
The New York Knicks are targeting yet another Minnesota Timberwolves coach, further illustrating their commitment to finding the ideal leadership to take the franchise to the next level. As the Knicks aggressively pursue a fresh direction in the coaching department, their repeated interest in Timberwolves staff members is becoming one of the most intriguing storylines of the NBA offseason. With the Timberwolves coming off a deep playoff run and praised for their player development, defensive toughness, and innovative game plans, it’s no surprise that teams across the league—including the Knicks—are trying to replicate some of that success.
The Knicks’ renewed interest in the Timberwolves coaching pipeline marks at least the second time in the last year that New York has zeroed in on Minnesota’s bench. Last offseason, the Knicks reportedly reached out to Timberwolves associate head coach Micah Nori before ultimately deciding to stick with their current structure. Now, with new urgency following another playoff exit and growing internal pressure to compete at a championship level, the Knicks are again exploring the Timberwolves’ staff—this time turning their focus toward assistant coach Kevin Burleson.
Burleson, who has steadily risen through the NBA coaching ranks, has earned praise across the league for his work with young guards, his detailed game preparation, and his leadership as the head coach of the Timberwolves’ G-League affiliate, the Iowa Wolves. His time overseeing the Wolves’ developmental program has made him a favorite among executives looking for coaches who can balance immediate results with long-term player growth—an ideal fit for a Knicks team that’s still juggling win-now expectations with youth development.
Sources close to the situation have confirmed that the Knicks’ front office has begun preliminary conversations and background checks regarding Burleson, with formal interview requests expected to follow. This comes on the heels of a broader search that has already included several top assistants across the NBA, including names from the Heat, Celtics, and Bucks coaching trees. The Knicks’ interest in Burleson signals not just admiration for his skill set, but perhaps a shift toward younger, modern-thinking coaches who are deeply involved in analytics, relationship-building, and flexible systems.
What makes Burleson such a compelling candidate is his diverse basketball journey. A former player, he’s worked in both development-heavy environments and with contending rosters. He brings a balance of practical on-court knowledge and coaching versatility. Those who have worked with him speak highly of his communication skills, calm demeanor, and ability to translate complex basketball concepts into digestible game plans. That kind of profile fits well within the high-pressure atmosphere of Madison Square Garden, where a coach must simultaneously handle media scrutiny, locker room dynamics, and fan expectations.
The Knicks’ front office—led by President Leon Rose and GM Scott Perry—has remained tight-lipped about the coaching search’s internal dynamics, but league insiders believe the franchise is seeking someone who can do more than just maintain their current trajectory. After multiple playoff appearances and a strong regular-season showing, New York is knocking on the door of elite status. However, postseason failures and inconsistencies in execution have raised questions about whether a new voice is needed to push the roster past its current ceiling.
That’s where the Timberwolves connection becomes even more relevant. Minnesota’s coaching staff, under head coach Chris Finch, has been widely praised for its tactical flexibility, defensive coordination, and ability to maximize players’ skill sets. Their surprising success in the 2024-25 season—including a run to the Western Conference Finals—only increased the demand for their coaching talent across the league. If the Knicks are indeed aiming to adopt elements of Minnesota’s system, targeting someone like Burleson makes perfect sense.
Adding more intrigue is the context of the Knicks’ current roster. They boast a strong core built around Jalen Brunson, Julius Randle, and a collection of hardworking role players such as Josh Hart and Donte DiVincenzo. The franchise has prioritized defense, rebounding, and hustle under Tom Thibodeau, but critics argue the offense remains too rigid, lacking the creativity and movement necessary for deep playoff success. Burleson’s reputation for incorporating player movement, off-ball screening, and guard-friendly spacing could represent a philosophical shift that breathes new life into New York’s attack.
Additionally, Burleson’s developmental strengths may appeal to the Knicks’ long-term planning. Young players such as Quentin Grimes, Miles McBride, and rookie additions have shown promise but have yet to be fully integrated into high-leverage moments. With the right guidance, the Knicks could unlock additional value from these pieces—potentially expanding their rotation, conserving energy for stars, and creating a more versatile lineup.
The timing of this interest is also critical. With several coaching vacancies around the league and other front offices evaluating their own benches, the Knicks may need to act quickly to secure their preferred candidate. The NBA coaching market moves fast, especially as teams begin preparing for Summer League evaluations, training camp plans, and preseason logistics. If New York is serious about targeting Burleson—or another Timberwolves assistant—they may need to expedite the process before another team strikes first.
Still, this move would not come without risks. Burleson has yet to serve as an NBA head coach. While his résumé is impressive, making the jump from assistant or G-League head coach to the top seat in New York is no small task. The pressure, intensity, and constant media spotlight can overwhelm even the most talented minds. The Knicks must be absolutely certain that any coach they hire—especially one with limited NBA head coaching experience—can handle the grind, the expectations, and the inevitable criticism.
Historically, the Knicks have swung between seasoned veterans and up-and-comers when it comes to coaching hires. From the likes of Larry Brown and Jeff Van Gundy to younger voices like Derek Fisher and David Fizdale, the franchise has not yet found the sustained success that comes from long-term coaching continuity. If they truly believe that Burleson—or any Timberwolves assistant—can deliver that stability and growth, then this may represent a rare chance to build something lasting.
There’s also the question of how such a hire would impact team culture. Tom Thibodeau, for all his critics, brought discipline, toughness, and a clear identity back to the Knicks. The players responded. The fan base rallied. MSG once again became a place where defense was celebrated and effort was rewarded. Any new coach will have to retain some of that foundation while evolving the offense and modernizing the system. It’s a delicate balance. Hire someone too similar to Thibs, and the team may stagnate. Go too far in the other direction, and you risk losing the locker room’s defensive edge.
Regardless of which direction the Knicks ultimately choose, the consistent targeting of Timberwolves assistants speaks volumes. It suggests that New York sees something special in Minnesota’s basketball philosophy—something that can be replicated or reimagined on the East Coast. Whether it’s Burleson, Nori, or another figure from that tree, the Knicks are clearly looking for more than just tactical insight. They want someone who can inspire, adapt, and guide a franchise that hasn’t won a championship in over five decades.
For fans, this ongoing coaching search is yet another chapter in the Knicks’ relentless quest to climb back into the NBA elite. Patience has worn thin, but there’s also cautious optimism. This isn’t the chaotic front office of past eras. Today’s Knicks are methodical, measured, and increasingly ambitious. Their interest in cutting-edge assistants like Burleson shows a willingness to think outside the box, to bet on potential, and to build something with long-term promise.
Whether that gamble pays off remains to be seen. Coaching hires are inherently unpredictable. What looks like a genius move on paper can unravel under pressure, and the brightest minds can fall short if they aren’t supported or empowered. But if the Knicks believe that the next great coach might be sitting on Minnesota’s bench—guiding players in practice, shaping strategies behind the scenes—then they’re wise to explore every possible angle.
In a league where coaching innovation is just as valuable as star power, the Knicks’ targeting of another Timberwolves assistant could be the start of a new, more forward-thinking chapter. One where leadership is earned, not inherited, and where the next great Knicks era begins not with a blockbuster trade, but with a bold and thoughtful hire.
