Knicks' head coach Tom Thibodeau criticized by franchise exec
After a string of losses the New York Knicks are not in good shape and that's precisely why head coach Tom Thibodeau has come in for heavy criticism.
With recent results not going their way, the questions surrounding the Knicks are beginning to increase.
Knicks exec critical of headcoach Tom Thibodeau
The New York Knicks are currently in a bad situation. In fact, things are now so dire that 2021 Coach of the Year Tom Thibodeau has now come under fire from individuals within the franchise itself. According to reports, Knicks executive William Wesley has criticized Thibodeau's coaching in private conversations with owner James Dolan. Wesley allegedly told Dolan that a significant amount of blame for the Knicks' present state should fall at the feet of Thibodeau.
While the news does not paint a pretty picture for Thibodea, it is understood that for the moment his job continues to be safe as All-Star weekend approaches. Most recently the Knicks capitulated against the Brooklyn Nets on Wednesday after having led by as much as 28 points at one stage in the game. After the game it was said that "some people of influence at Madison Square Garden" were losing confidence in him. Further to that it was also understood that Thibodeau was angry that the front office didn't make a move to upgrade the roster before the trade deadline.
How did Thibodeau and the Knicks get here?
With all that is being said by either side, one could be forgiven for not understanding exactly how the rift has widened between the Knicks and their coach, however, a quick look at recent results and things start to become very black and white. Against the Portland Trailblazers on February 12th, the Knicks were outscored 35-11 in the fourth quarter in a game that saw them enjoy a 23 point lead at one point. In the end they lost 112-103. Then came their overtime loss at home on Monday to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Again having enjoyed a double digit lead as late as the fourth quarter, New York somehow managed to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory, eventually falling 127-123. Last but not least was the aforementioned loss on Wednesday to the Nets. Interestingly, the Nets were without Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, Joe Harris and recent acquisition Ben Simmons. Not a good look for New York.
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Where do Thibodeau and the Knicks go from here?
Prior to their disastrous game against the Nets, New York had already seen a trend developing. Back on February 5th the Knicks threw away a 21-point lead away to the Los Angeles Lakers. As they prepare for a small break with All Star weekend upon us and a 25-34 record - the last 7 games have been losses - the Knicks enter the All-Star break sitting in 12th in the East. while it's fair to say that Thibodeau's first season saw the Knicks punching above their weight, it is now clear that the good times have come to an end. With accusations of a 'loss of identity,' a disturbing trend of losses and the ground they will have to make up if they are to qualify for the playoffs, the future does not appear to be bright. On the other hand, it is clear that the Knicks are in need of a roster review. Granted they have missed the likes of R.J. Barrett and Derrick Rose in their line up lately, but one gets the feeling there is a great need for a restructuring if New York is to get back to where it once was.