While Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau could end up on the hot seat if the team has another disappointing season, he says pressure is essentially not in his vocabulary as the franchise enters a pivotal year, Steve Popper of Newsday writes.
“I’ve never felt pressure, ever,” Thibodeau said. “See, when you put everything you have into your job, that’s all you can do. So I’ve never felt pressure. Others can say this, that. That ain’t happening here. Just get ready. I’ve been at this a long time. I approach it the same way. I put everything I have into each and every day. I’m willing to live with that result. There’s no one — no one — who studies this team harder than I do.”
Thibodeau has some financial security, having signed a five-year contract in 2020.
We have more on the Knicks:
- While most teams entered training camp with a full 20-man roster, the Knicks are one player shy of the maximum. According to Ian Begley of SNY TV (Twitter link), the possible reason is that they are hoping to reduce guard Jean Montero’s buyout with overseas club Gran Canaria. Montero impressed the Knicks, among others, during Summer League games. The Knicks reportedly agreed to an Exhibit 10 deal with Montero in June.
- The team officially announced its coaching staff for this season, Begley tweets, including the additions of Rick Brunson and Othella Harrington. Johnnie Bryant is the associate head coach.
- Regarding Rick Brunson, father of free agent signee Jalen Brunson, the team has declined to comment on whether there was an internal investigation regarding allegations of misconduct that led to his resignation from the Timberwolves staff in 2018. Thibodeau was somewhat vague when asked about the elder Brunson, according to The Athletic’s Jon Krawczynski and Fred Katz. “I’m not sure exactly of everything that was done, but I know whenever they hire anyone, they’re going to vet them,” he said, adding “I feel strongly about him.”
Glad to see Knicks not giving up on Montero. He has some upside
Thibs may study the team harder than anyone and everyone, but that doesn’t mean he’s going to be successful, and he’s proven that as well.
New York Knicks have to have a good season or it can get hot over there.
It’s already ‘percolating.’
-Clyde
He should be feeling the pressure because it’s there. Thibs is too damn stubborn
Why would he feel pressure? 2k’er angst? He’s an elite HC with a process that’s worked everywhere he’s been and is working here. When you produce you usually have security, but if you don’t get that, it’s not principally your problem. If you go, you’ll take your productive capacity with you, and the burden will be on those who now have to replace and improve upon your production.
Thibs’ Knick W/L record (2 years): 78-76.
Knick W/L records pre-Thibs:
– Jackson’s coaches (3 years): 78-168
– Stooges’ coaches (3 years): 67-163
And people think it’s Thibs that should be worried about his being dismissed as HC?
Listen Tibs.
Has done more for the team in has two years. Then the other coach have in there past attempts. Plus you’ve to take into consideration that management has not been able to produce top much talent. And Randall didn’t play up to his potential last year. So basically one more win by Tibbs and he’ll have a better record than all the other coaches in the last three years.