The Bill Simmons Podcast Why Did the Knicks Fire Thibs? Plus, a Belichick Debate (and More) With Pablo Torre
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Jun 3, 2025 
Pablo Torre, an investigative sports journalist known for his cultural commentary, joins the discussion. They dive into the surprising firing of Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau and the intricate dynamics of NBA team management. The conversation takes a turn to Belichick's legacy, sparking a lively debate about his influence and the absurdities of sports media. They also explore the delicate line between sensationalism and ethics in sports journalism, reflecting on the complexities of storytelling in today's digital age.
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Knicks' Honest Title Assessment
- The Knicks firing Tom Thibodeau signals they believe the team has likely maxed out its potential under him.
- Factors included heavy starter workloads, inconsistent leads, and reliance on favorable playoff circumstances.
Coaching Style Causes Dissension
- Thibodeau's coaching style, including playing starters heavy minutes and ignoring bench development, caused team dissatisfaction.
- Changes late in playoffs indicated poor use of regular season to adjust rotations.
Player Power Shortens Coaching Runs
- NBA coaches increasingly face player empowerment pressures leading to shorter tenures.
- Players' influence and media scrutiny can accelerate coaching changes, even after playoff success.