Jalen Brunson Stands by Coach Thibodeau Ahead of Playoffs

New York, New York – As the New York Knicks prepare for the playoffs, star guard Jalen Brunson publicly expressed his unwavering support for head coach Tom Thibodeau. Following a practice on Friday, Brunson reflected on the significant impact Thibodeau has had on his career and the team. “He means a lot. Individually, he’s meant a lot to my career,” Brunson stated. “There’s a lot of players who can say they’ve definitely benefited from Tom Thibodeau in his career.”

Now in his fifth season with the Knicks, Thibodeau has yet to lead the franchise beyond the second round of the playoffs. While he has turned around a historically underperforming team, growing criticism from fans has raised concerns about his future should the team falter in postseason play. Thibodeau, however, remains focused on the task at hand. “I don’t pay attention to any of that stuff,” he said. “I just worry about the series. That’s all I worry about.”

Brunson, whose father Rick is a Knicks assistant, has a long history with Thibodeau. The two have been linked since Brunson’s childhood, when Thibodeau was an assistant coach for the Knicks from 1996 to 2003 and Rick Brunson played for the team. “Everyone’s entitled to their own opinions,” Brunson said. “I’m a big Thibs supporter. That’s just who I am. That’s just what I’ll be.”

Critics often describe Thibodeau as rigid and resistant to change, particularly in terms of his coaching philosophy and player workloads. Brunson, however, offers a different perspective: “I’ve seen him evolve a lot. I think he’s evolved a lot. Having in-depth conversations with him, obviously about basketball but also non-basketball stuff, the way we can connect helps us on the court. It’s been fun.”

The Knicks, who are set to face the Detroit Pistons in their playoff opener, have worked hard to prepare for a physical series. Center Mitchell Robinson highlighted the need for a gritty performance. “It’s going to be a dirty series,” he said. “We’re going to get out there and fight. Physicality with Detroit and us. It’s something we just have to bring.”

The Pistons have gained recognition for their tough, physical play under coach J.B. Bickerstaff. Robinson is expected to battle against Detroit’s key interior players, particularly Isaiah Stewart, known for instigating confrontations on the court. “Just be smart,” Robinson advised his teammates regarding Stewart’s aggressive style. “Be physical, be smart and play basketball.”

As the Knicks get ready for Game 1, which will also feature a watch party for fans unable to secure tickets, the tone is set for an intense and competitive series. The free event begins at 4 p.m. on 33rd Street, culminating with a tip-off at 6 p.m. “We have an opportunity here,” Brunson said. “We’re just ready to compete and show what we can do.”