Stephen A. Smith criticized Knicks president Leon Rose for a “weak-ass statement” following the firing of coach Tom Thibodeau. The Knicks dismissed Thibodeau after five seasons, including an Eastern Conference finals run. Smith accused Rose of being a “coward” for not addressing the media directly. The decision came after the Knicks lost to the Indiana Pacers in the conference finals. Thibodeau led the team to the playoffs in four of his five seasons and brought the Knicks back to prominence in the NBA. Rose stated that firing Thibodeau was in the “best interest of the organization,” aiming for a championship. Smith and others criticized Rose for rarely speaking to reporters about franchise decisions. The Knicks now face the task of finding a new head coach.
