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In a surprising move, the New York Knicks dismissed head coach Tom Thibodeau, sparking contrasting reactions from two of their former players, J.R. Smith and Metta World Peace. The news came as a shock to Smith, who took to Instagram to express his disbelief. "I don't know what the f-k going on... I don't get it... Back-to-back 50-win seasons, first time since when? Bro, it's so bad I [direct messaged] Stephen A. Smith just to ask him, 'How much is [Thibodeau] owed? What is going on?' C'mon man! Damn!" he lamented. Smith further aired his frustrations by calling for an appearance on Stephen A. Smith’s ESPN show "First Take."

Thibodeau’s tenure saw the Knicks reach the Eastern Conference final for the first time since 2000, though they fell to the Pacers in six games. Despite these achievements, the Knicks felt the need for a new direction, emphasizing their focus on winning a championship.

Meanwhile, Metta World Peace saw the coaching vacancy as an opportunity. Known for his fearless demeanor, World Peace took to X (formerly Twitter) to pitch himself as the ideal candidate to lead the Knicks. "Metta is the perfect choice for head coach of the [Knicks]. Since 1999 this was suppose to happen. I've never ran from the city," he asserted. Highlighting his toughness and New York roots, World Peace added, "When all the top players left NYC because it was hard, I went to [St. John's]. I wanted to be drafted by the Knicks, I seemed to be the only one un-afraid of the city. I'm built to challenge the city. I'm the number one guy for the job."

With a career spanning 17 years in the NBA, World Peace boasts a robust resume, which includes an NBA Finals win with the Lakers in 2010, four All-Defensive team selections, an All-NBA team selection, and an All-Star appearance. Though he only spent one season with the Knicks, his dedication to New York is evident in his persistent efforts to connect with the city.

Smith, who played four seasons with the Knicks as part of his 16-year NBA career, also has an impressive portfolio. He earned two championships—one with the Cavaliers and another with the Lakers—and was named the NBA's Sixth Man of the Year in the 2012-13 season, averaging a career-high 18.1 points per game.

While Smith expressed bewilderment over Thibodeau’s firing, World Peace continued to advocate for himself on social media. "I want every bit of the smoke in NYC. I'm 100% in and ready to HEAD COACH the great [New York Knicks]," he proclaimed, emphasizing his strong ties to the city through his high school dominance and local championships. World Peace concluded his campaign by affirming his readiness and confidence, "NBA accolades speak for themselves. I basically locked up tons of hall of famers. Sorry. But light work. Metta is ready for the city. #thecityismine"

The future of the Knicks' coaching position remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: the team's decisions are stirring strong emotions and reactions from their former stars.