The New York Knicks’ decision to fire Tom Thibodeau had been “trending in that direction for months,” according to Ramona Shelburne of ESPN.
Leon Rose met with several key Knicks players in the days leading up to the decision before the team decided that they needed a new voice as head coach.
While the players had not tuned out Thibodeau, there was doubt as to whether he could lead the group to the Finals.
Josh Hart said he suggested Thibodeau change his starting lineup for Game 3 against the Pacers by putting in Mitchell Robinson.
Combined with Mikal Bridges calling out Thibodeau over his minutes played earlier in the season, the public criticism of Thibodeau alarmed the front office.
The Knicks do not appear to have a succession plan to replace Thibodeau.