The New York Knicks have decided they’re simply not that into Tom Thibodeau anymore and have parted ways with their coach of five years after getting bounced by the Indiana Pacers in six games in the Eastern Conference finals.
Thibodeau, known for his defensive approach and willingness to sell his soul for a random March win against the Charlotte Hornets, has long been criticized by fans and media for overplaying his starters, often resulting in fatigue, and a narrow bench, which never quite finds its feet during a long regular season.
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Take this season as an example. Playing any starter over 35 minutes per game in today’s NBA is considered somewhat aggressive. Thibodeau? He decided all five of his starters should crack that number.
Of course, while Thibodeau overplayed his key guys, there’s another layer to all of this. The Knicks weren’t exactly deep, nor did the front office provide Thibodeau with a bench that was particularly trustworthy in terms of executing his system.
As such, criticism has to spill over to management as well, even if its initial investment in OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns — all acquired within a seven-month period — was the first step of a larger plan.
Now, the Knicks will look for a new head coach who can help them reach the mountaintop and try to secure New York its first championship since the Nixon administration.
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(Don’t worry, Generation Alpha, you’ll learn about the 70s in high school.)
So, which qualities should a new coach have?
First and foremost, a larger embrace of depth is necessary, even if that depth mostly … well, is lacking.
It will be the responsibility of the new hire to install creative systems that optimize the bench and get the most out of the Cameron Paynes of the world and players of that ilk.
More than that, however, a new coach should try to squeeze more out of Towns offensively. We’re all aware of his defensive shortcomings, so a full lean-in on Towns as an offensive player wouldn’t be the worst idea in the world, especially to make life easier on Jalen Brunson, who has otherwise been the heart of the team and its offensive pillar.
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Five times this postseason KAT scored less than 20 points — and twice he scored just 10. Putting an emphasis on what he does best is the surest way to increase the team’s upside, and perhaps a better offensive coach can unlock that potential.
As the summer progress, the Knicks have plenty to figure out, roster-wise. But first up is finding their next head coach.
