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The New York Knicks are eyeing a deep playoff run this year, but if things go south, there’s already chatter about who’s going to get the blame—and all eyes are on head coach Tom Thibodeau.
NBA analyst Bill Simmons recently labeled Thibodeau a “hot seat” candidate, and with good reason. The Knicks are likely heading into a brutal second-round series against the reigning champs, the Boston Celtics—if they can first get past a fired-up young Detroit Pistons squad in round one.
Thibodeau has a rep as a brilliant basketball mind and a defensive guru, but that might not be enough to save his job. After all, top-tier coaches like Mike Malone (who literally won a championship) and Taylor Jenkins have already been let go this season. In today’s NBA, nobody’s really safe.
Simmons’s main critique? Thibs doesn’t bring enough flair on offense, and he has a habit of pushing his starters to the brink during the regular season—something that can backfire big-time in the playoffs.
If the Knicks flop against Boston or even stumble in round one, don’t be shocked if the front office decides it’s time for a fresh voice.
And if Thibs does get the boot? He won’t be unemployed for long. The coaching carousel is already spinning. The Phoenix Suns just parted ways with Mike Budenholzer, and they’re reportedly looking at big names like Malone. If they strike out there, Thibodeau could be next on their list.
Honestly? He’d be a solid fit. Phoenix is in chaos mode right now and could use a no-nonsense leader to bring structure and grit. Thibs delivers both. He might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but wherever he goes, players show up and play hard.
So yeah, the Knicks’ postseason could shape not just their future—but Thibodeau’s next chapter, and maybe even the identity of another franchise in need of leadership.