2. Isiah Thomas
If there was a word to describe Isiah Thomas’ career as general manager of the Knicks, it’s probably “unpredictable” — very similar to his attitude as a player. Thomas’ tenure provided plenty of excitement and embarrassment alike for all those involved, especially the fans.
Thomas held the role from Dec. 22, 2003 to April 2, 2008 with his marquee move being the acquisition of All-Star point guard Stephon Marbury. The Brooklyn, NY native immediately sent a jolt of energy into the fanbase back in 2004, giving the team a fresh attitude to intimidate opponents. The Knicks would make a playoff run in 2004, only to get swept by the heavily favored New Jersey Nets in the opening round.
The wheels began to fall off the Thomas bus after failed deals that included acquiring a washed-up Steve Francis from the Orland Magic in exchange for promising young player Trevor Ariza in 2006. The other big incident wasn’t basketball-related, as Thomas was accused of sexual harassment by a Madison Square Garden employee that same year, gaining national attention.
Thomas remains in the Madison Square Garden family as president of the WNBA’s New York Liberty, always leaving the possibility of a comeback to the Knicks organization.