'Biggest question is why?' – Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson was in awe after news of Tom Thibodeau getting fired from New York Knicks broke the internet
Magic Johnson and Tom Thibodeau. Image via:| Maddie Meyer/ Getty Images
In one of the most jaw-dropping coaching decisions in recent NBA history, the New York Knicks have fired head coach Tom Thibodeau just days after their deep postseason run came to an end.
The announcement came as a thunderbolt across the league, especially considering the Knicks had just reached the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in 25 years and posted their highest win total in over a decade. Fans, players, and even basketball icons like Magic Johnson were left asking the obvious question: why?
Magic Johnson reacted to Tom Thibodeau's dismissal from the New York Knicks after the playoff run ended
The New York Knicks' decision to part ways with Tom Thibodeau has left NBA circles stunned. The franchise announced the firing on Tuesday, less than a week after their Game 6 loss to the Indiana Pacers ended their playoff dreams. Team President Leon Rose stated,
'Our organization is singularly focused on winning a championship for our fans...
Ultimately, we made the decision we feel is best for our organization moving forward.'
The statement acknowledged Thibodeau's contributions, crediting him for four playoff appearances and four series wins in five seasons. Yet, it did little to explain why a coach who had just led the team past defending champions Boston and into the final four was suddenly no longer part of their future.
NBA legend Magic Johnson took to social media to express what many were thinking.
'WOW WOW WOW. I can't believe the NY Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau was fired today after leading the Knicks to the Eastern Conference Finals! 🤯 The biggest question is why was he fired? Now, who will be the next coach of the Knicks?' Johnson wrote on X.
Johnson's reaction aligned with a stunned fanbase and basketball community that had seen the Knicks evolve under Thibodeau to playoff contenders.
Despite falling short against the Pacers in a hard-fought six-game series, the Knicks' postseason run was widely viewed as a success.
After finishing the regular season at 51-31, they knocked out the Detroit Pistons and stunned the Celtics. Their efforts earned praise throughout the league, yet Thibodeau's in-game decisions and heavy minutes distribution once again became a talking point, criticisms that have followed him from his time with the Chicago Bulls and Minnesota Timberwolves.
Veteran guard Josh Hart shared his appreciation, writing he was 'forever grateful' to Thibodeau after the firing was announced.
Under Thibodeau, the Knicks transformed from a .318 winning percentage team into one that boasted back-to-back 50-win seasons and consistent playoff success. He earned his second Coach of the Year award during his New York tenure and amassed a 226-174 record, making him the fourth-winningest coach in franchise history.
Also Read:
Shaquille O'Neal's bold pick to replace Tom Thibodeau with former Golden State Warriors' coach sparks intense reactions
Yet, the team decided it was time to 'move in another direction.' According to SNY's Ian Begley, the Knicks still owe Thibodeau at least $30 million on his most recent extension, signed in 2024.
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