Knicks Bring in Former Mavericks Shooting Coach
The New York Knicks have once again dipped into the Dallas Mavericks’ coaching pool as they continue building a team aimed at contending.
According to James L. Edwards III of The Athletic, the Knicks have hired Peter Patton, a former Mavericks shooting coach, to fill the same role in New York. Patton joins a growing list of ex-Mavericks in the Knicks organization, including star point guard Jalen Brunson and longtime trainer Casey Smith.
Patton’s Coaching Background
Most recently, Patton worked as the director of player development for the Chicago Bulls, a position he held for two seasons. A former standout shooter at DePaul, Patton has deep ties to the Chicago basketball scene.
His coaching résumé includes time under former Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau with the Minnesota Timberwolves, followed by a five-year stint with the Dallas Mavericks from 2018 to 2023. That run included a Finals appearance and overlapped with Brunson’s time in Dallas.
Patton’s Impact on Brunson
During Patton’s time in Dallas, Brunson steadily improved his shooting, jumping from 46% over his first two seasons to over 50% in his final two years as a Maverick. That progression helped him secure a major free-agent contract with the Knicks in 2022.
Brunson praised Patton’s influence on his development, saying on Patton’s website:
“As a professional basketball player in the NBA, I can confidently say that the hard work and training I’ve put in with Peter Patton has been instrumental in my success on the court. Peter’s expertise and dedication to helping athletes reach their full potential is unmatched.”
Knicks’ Mavericks Connection Continues
Brunson’s move from Dallas to New York was controversial, with Mavericks owner Mark Cuban accusing the Knicks of tampering, especially after they hired Brunson’s father, Rick Brunson, to the coaching staff shortly before the deal.
That accusation led to an NBA investigation, which resulted in the Knicks forfeiting a 2025 second-round pick.
Now, with Patton in the fold, the Knicks deepen their connection to Dallas once more as they continue building a team around Brunson with familiar and trusted faces.
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