Knicks near deal to hire Brendan O’Connor

Aug 1, 2025 7:12 AM

The New York Knicks are finalizing an agreement to bring in Brendan O’Connor as the lead defensive assistant on head coach Mike Brown’s staff, according to multiple reports.

Ian Begley of SNY confirmed on Thursday that both sides are “closing in” on a deal that would add O’Connor to the Knicks’ sideline ahead of the 2025–26 NBA season.

O’Connor previously served as an assistant coach with the Los Angeles Clippers under both Tyronn Lue and Doc Rivers, earning a reputation around the league for his defensive acumen.

He is expected to take on a prominent role coordinating New York’s defensive schemes, filling a key position vacated when Tom Thibodeau and the organization parted ways in June.

Source confirms Brendan O’Connor and Knicks are closing in on deal to add O’Connor as a top assistant on Mike Brown’s staff. O’Connor has a strong defensive acumen and has worked for the Clippers under both Ty Lue and Doc Rivers. He will be top assistant on defense. Knicks still… https://t.co/ZDrXIRedbw
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) July 31, 2025

Brown was officially hired as head coach on July 7, replacing Thibodeau after five seasons.

Brown’s coaching staff is still taking shape, with the franchise continuing to search for another top assistant to round out the bench.

New York’s front office has prioritized experience and system versatility in its coaching hires this offseason, as the team looks to make a deeper playoff run behind a revamped core.