New York Knicks: Mike Woodson Will Be Back In 2014-15

The New York Knicks picked up coach Mike Woodson‘s option for the 2014-15 season. The signing took place the day before training camp and a week after the Knicks reshuffled their front office. The Knicks demoted general manager Glen Grunwald and brought back a former executive, Steve Mills, to serve as team president and general manager.

Bringing Woodson back for another year put to rest the idea that Woodson was now on the hot seat. Rumors swirled that Woodson’s days may be numbered after Grunwald was demoted since he and Grunwald shared the same triumphs and tribulations last season. Mills, however, appears to be satisfied with Woodson as head coach.

"“I have long respected Mike and think he has done a remarkable job since becoming the head coach of the Knicks.” Mills said of Woodson. “After spending time with him recently, it is clear that picking up his option is an easy decision.”"

As an interim coach, Woodson led the Knicks to an 18-6 record after relieving coach Mike D’Antoni during the 2011-12 season.

In Woodson’s first full season, he guided the Knicks to a 54-28 record and their first Atlantic Division title since 1994. The Knicks were the No. 2o seed in the East and had a .679 win percentage, which was second-best in franchise history. They also won their first playoff series in more than a decade.

The Knicks’ defense jumped from being 21st during D’Antoni’s last full season to 17th during Woodson’s first full season. This leap is not an attention grabber, but the team’s two main facets, Carmelo Anthony and J.R. Smith, are known for their lack of defense. So, it is a step in the right direction.

Individually, Woodson was the third leading vote-getter for the 2012-13 NBA Coach of the Year award and was named the NBA’s Eastern Conference Coach of the Month for April.

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