thesun
The New York Knicks are facing an early-season challenge as associate head coach Chris Jent has stepped away from the team for personal reasons, according to the New York Post. The 56-year-old coach's absence comes just days into the 2026-27 NBA campaign, adding to the reigning champions' difficulties as they struggle to find their form.
Jent, who joined the Knicks last year from the Charlotte Hornets, has been a key figure in orchestrating the team's offense. He was present on the sidelines for the season opener against the Philadelphia 76ers, a 106-100 loss, and participated in the championship ring ceremony before the game. However, he has since been absent from the bench for losses to the Boston Celtics and Orlando Magic, as well as the team's first win of the season against the Detroit Pistons on Tuesday.
There is no timetable for Jent's return, and his situation has been described as fluid. Head coach Mike Brown has not addressed the matter publicly, citing its personal nature. In Jent's absence, assistant coach T.J. Saint, 39, is expected to fill in until the associate head coach returns.
It is also understood that Jent interviewed unsuccessfully for the Portland Trail Blazers head coach position before the 2026-27 season. Despite the off-court distraction, the Knicks are focused on defending their title, which they won last summer behind Jalen Brunson's leadership, ending a 53-year championship drought.
Key Analysis
The loss of Chris Jent, even temporarily, could disrupt the Knicks' offensive schemes as they navigate a tough start to their title defense. With head coach Mike Brown maintaining silence on the matter, the team must rely on T.J. Saint to step up. The Knicks' ability to adapt to this coaching change will be crucial as they aim to recapture the form that led them to last season's championship.
Originally reported by thesun.