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The New York Knicks have decided to part ways with head coach Tom Thibodeau, and recent reports shed light on the factors that led to his dismissal. A significant point of contention within the Knicks organization was Thibodeau's handling of star player Jalen Brunson.

Throughout the 2024-25 season, Thibodeau relied heavily on Brunson, particularly in clutch moments. According to sources, Brunson's usage rate reached its highest under Thibodeau, raising alarms within the team's management. The Knicks were dissatisfied with what they perceived as an over-dependence on the 28-year-old guard, believing it was detrimental to both Brunson’s long-term health and the team's overall performance.

Before February, the pairing of Brunson and his teammate Karl-Anthony Towns was one of the most effective in the league, with their pick-and-roll play averaging 1.22 points per direct play. However, as the season progressed and opponents adjusted their strategies, the effectiveness of this combination plummeted to 0.88 points per play. Critics argue that Thibodeau failed to adapt, leaving Brunson to shoulder much of the offensive burden.

This reliance possibly contributed to the Knicks’ fatigue and inability to sustain their energy through the playoffs, culminating in a devastating loss to the Indiana Pacers in the conference finals—New York's first appearance at that stage in 25 years. Thibodeau's notorious tendency to lean heavily on his starters played a significant role in this downfall, mirroring past criticisms from his tenure with the Chicago Bulls, where Derrick Rose's career was marred by injuries.

Ultimately, the Knicks' management opted to prioritize Brunson's long-term well-being and future success over short-term gains, fearing a repeat of the Derrick Rose scenario. As the Knicks look ahead, their focus will be on finding the right coach who can build around their franchise star while navigating the challenges of taking the team to greater playoff heights.