The article discusses the recent success of the New York Knicks and their coach, Tom Thibodeau, during the NBA playoffs. Speculation about Thibodeau's job security had been prevalent before the playoffs, fueled by the Knicks' history and the team's limited roster flexibility. However, a hard-fought win over the Boston Celtics in the playoffs has significantly diminished concerns about Thibodeau's future with the team.
The author suggests that Thibodeau exceeded expectations by leading the Knicks to a first-round win and a competitive series against the Celtics. The Knicks' victory over the Celtics further solidifies Thibodeau's position and alleviates pressure from the previous concerns.
The article references the Knicks' past struggles and how these previous experiences have led to a common expectation of disappointment. This background helps to contextualize the relief felt after Thibodeau's success.
In summary, Tom Thibodeau's strategic coaching has improved the Knicks' standing and led to a quieter environment regarding speculation about his future with the team.
BOSTON — Persistent speculation had Tom Thibodeau’s seat on fire if the Knicks disappointed in these playoffs.
Was it rooted in reality? Who knows. If you’re trying to predict James Dolan’s course of action after elimination, good luck. Talking heads needed a topic to generate preemptive anger, and the coach is the easiest target, especially when the roster is constructed without much maneuverability.
Unfortunately, we’ve been conditioned to expect disappointment from the Knicks. It’s a default emotion that’s hard to kick after the tumultuous first 20 years of B.B. (Before Brunson).
So for Thibs, the assumed bar was a first-round victory over the Pistons and a competitive series against the mighty Celtics. And if that’s true, Thibodeau officially cleared it with Wednesday’s 91-90 victory over the Celtics.
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