Multiple reports throughout the season indicated that the Knicks would be bringing back Tom Thibodeau for a third season, despite the team taking a step back and consistent questions about his rotation and dedication to playing struggling veterans over his younger players.
Knicks team president Leon Rose appeared to confirm the organization’s continued belief in Thibodeau in a letter to season ticket holders sent out on Thursday.
“Our coaching staff is at the heart of our young core’s development, and confidence to compete at the highest level, as well as our vets’ ability to produce in their roles,” Rose said in the letter. “We have seen multiple players take leaps over the last two seasons under Coach Thibodeau’s tutelage and commitment to playing the right way.”
Rose, in an end-of-season interview with only Mike Breen of MSG, also noted his support of Thibodeau who many thought could be on the hot seat after New York missed the playoffs just one year after earning the fourth seed in the playoffs, helping Thibodeau to a Coach of the Year honor. But Rose says the future is bright for the Knicks with Thibodeau at the helm.
“We possess 13 draft picks in the next three years, providing us with a variety of ways to improve our team and complement our young core,” Rose wrote. “We have worked hard to maintain financial flexibility, which is a key factor to developing success in this league, and we are backed by tremendous support and resources from ownership. these are all vital ingredients needed to manufacture a winning team.”
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