Figures across the NBA voiced their support for Tom Thibodeau after the New York Knicks dismissed him shortly after reaching the Eastern Conference Finals. Notably, J.B. Bickerstaff, the head coach of the Detroit Pistons, criticized this decision and the overarching trend of firing established coaches.

When discussing the coaching changes and their implications, Bickerstaff pointed out that Thibodeau had restored the Knicks to playoff prominence, having ended a seven-year drought in his first season and leading the team to successive rounds in the playoffs.

“It’s the final straw, I think, of what’s happened this season and the level of respect we feel coaches deserve versus what they’re getting,” Bickerstaff stated on ESPN Radio. “Some of the decisions made down the stretch firing coaches illustrate that there are franchises that do not value coaching and its potential contributions.”

Following the injury-riddled 2024-25 season where they ambitiously aimed for the Finals by acquiring star players like Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges, the Knicks ultimately fell short against the Indiana Pacers in the playoffs.

Bickerstaff concluded, saying, “When a coach performs admirably, they deserve recognition and stability going into the next season.” His comments reflect a growing concern among coaches regarding job security and recognition for successful tenures.

Multiple teams have reportedly hindered the Knicks from interviewing current head coaches as they continue their search for Thibodeau’s successor, focusing on former coaches like Taylor Jenkins and Mike Brown.