Following the New York Knicks’ surprising defeat by the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals, attention is turning to critical decisions ahead in the offseason, particularly regarding the coaching role of Tom Thibodeau. The Knicks’ performance this season, marked by both unexpected triumphs and frustrating lapses, raises serious questions about the future leadership of the team and how it aligns with their roster.
Growing Pressure on Tom Thibodeau’s Future as Knicks Head Coach
Tom Thibodeau has stirred intense debate among Knicks supporters, despite his role as the most successful Knicks head coach since Jeff Van Gundy’s tenure ended in 2001. While the Knicks’ achievement of reaching the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in 25 years is significant, many question if the current roster fits Thibodeau’s coaching approach and whether he maximized the team’s potential this season.
Critics point to the underutilization of key players such as Karl-Anthony Towns, regarded as one of the best shooting big men in the modern era. Thibodeau’s failure to employ Towns in five-out offensive sets or leverage the pick-and-roll with Jalen Brunson drew particular concern. This issue suggested underlying chemistry difficulties between the two stars during the crucial postseason encounters.
Though respected for his defensive expertise and relentless game preparation, Thibodeau’s coaching style has faced scrutiny for restrictions in player rotation and conservatism on offense. He is known to overplay favored starters, maintain rigid lineups, and lack offensive innovation, factors that frustrated many fans and analysts.
Some supporters advocate bringing in new leadership, pointing to Mike Malone, recently dismissed by the Denver Nuggets despite a championship win. Malone’s previous connection to the Knicks organization as an assistant coach and his reputed offensive creativity make him a popular possible replacement who might help unlock the Knicks’ scoring potential.
Fire Thibs. Hire Mike Malone. Go again. Explore a move for Giannis.
— Fan
Another common criticism targets Thibodeau’s handling of rookie development. Tyler Kolek’s limited playing time despite strong efficiency statistics—like an assist-to-turnover ratio and averaging 11.7 assists per 100 possessions—highlighted Thibodeau’s apparent reluctance to trust younger talent. Kolek played only a single post–season minute, accumulating three assists, a decision seen as detrimental at a time when playmaking options on the Knicks roster were scarce.
This pattern recurred with other players. Mikal Bridges publicly voiced frustration with Thibodeau’s short rotations and the heavy minutes demanded from starters. Three Knicks—Josh Hart, Bridges, and OG Anunoby—ranked among the league leaders in average minutes per game, which reportedly intensified player fatigue concerns.
Bridges shared with Knicks insider Stefan Bondy that he asked Thibodeau to reduce starters’ minutes, adding that although the coach was open to the idea, “He gets in his ways.” This admission underscores Thibodeau’s reputation for stubbornness both among the league and the fan base.
‘Tom Thibodeau wouldn’t play 9 guys in a baseball game’ is all time line from Kenny ‘The Jet’ Smith,
— User on X, citing commentary on Inside the NBA
Fan frustrations about Thibodeau’s coaching approach were expressed repeatedly online:
Thibs gotta go. He is stuck in his own way and stubborn. He is just not good at in game adjustments. Does not play or trust the younger players. Which hinders growth and development. Hes lack of adjustment in game 1 causes us the game. And going back to old tricks lost game 4. #NYK
— links242 (@E24lin), June 1, 2025
Despite the grueling minutes for starters, the Knicks avoided significant injuries during the playoffs, which suggests the heavy workload was not detrimental physically. Nevertheless, Thibodeau’s reputation for player overuse remains a contentious point.
During the series against the Pacers, Thibodeau’s strong commitment to core players like Josh Hart sometimes missed opportunities to give perimeter defenders like Landry Shamet and Delon Wright more game time. Hart’s aggressive defensive style occasionally led to breakdowns, leaving shooters open when he was drawn away from his position. Typically the team’s energizer and leader, Hart experienced a rare downturn in effectiveness during this crucial series.
Had Thibodeau been more willing to adjust his strategy earlier in the series, the Knicks might have seen a different outcome. While criticism is valid in some respects, firing a coach who ushered the Knicks to their first conference finals in a quarter-century would be a difficult decision for the franchise.
Support for Thibodeau From Knicks Leadership and Key Players
Inside the Knicks organization, Tom Thibodeau still retains strong support from critical figures. According to Fred Katz of The Athletic, the coach has the full endorsement of team president Leon Rose and receives complete buy-in from star guard Jalen Brunson.
It appears any potential coaching change is ultimately up to team owner James Dolan, who has the final say on such matters. Until a decision is made from the top, Thibodeau is expected to remain in his role while the team evaluates next steps.
Jalen Brunson expressed his clear backing of the coach amid swirling rumors about Thibodeau’s position:
Is that a real question right now? You just asked me if I believe he’s the right guy. Yes. Come on,
— Jalen Brunson
Given this backing, it seems the Knicks will focus on restructuring the roster during the offseason to better align with Thibodeau’s coaching philosophy. This includes the possibility of offseason moves aimed at finding players who fit his style more seamlessly.
The Road Ahead for the Knicks After a Critical Offseason
The New York Knicks now face a pivotal offseason where personnel decisions and roster construction will be crucial to their continued pursuit of success. The team must decide how to leverage their coaching strengths while addressing the shortcomings revealed in their collapse against the Pacers.
Whether they continue with Tom Thibodeau’s leadership or consider a coaching change, the offseason promises to be intense. The Knicks aim to build on their historic season and return stronger in their bid for an NBA title next year.