Amidst LeBron James’ Knicks Links, Former Head Coach Denounces Tom Thibodeau Firing

During a recent podcast, Stan Van Gundy, a longtime analyst and former NBA coach, was among several who criticized the criticism directed at NBA legend, LeBron James. Notably, SVG made a surprise appearance after a long time on a podcast. The former HC also spoke about the recent dismissal of former New York Knicks HC Tom Thibodeau.

On the podcast, SVG spoke about various topics, from LeBron James, the Kevin Durant-Houston Rockets trade deal, to the Knicks firing Thibbs after losing against the Indiana Pacers in the ECF Finals this past season. Given that, the former HC does not agree with the Knicks’ decision to fire Thibbs. He made a bold claim about the former Knicks HC on the podcast.

Yeah, they totally did, that was a big mistake, Tom Thibodeau one of the best coaches in this league. Did an unbelievable job with that team this year. Maximised virtually everyone on their roster.

Stan Van Gundy said

It is a critical assessment of the Knicks’ present reputation among their peers, even though they recently wrapped up their best season in almost 20 years. To the amazement of the NBA community, New York fired Tom Thibodeau after reaching the Eastern Conference Finals.

New York saw consecutive seasons with 50 wins under Thibodeau for the first time since the 1993–94 and 1994–95 seasons. Despite these outstanding accomplishments, Thibodeau lost his job after the Indiana Pacers defeated them in their first conference finals trip in 25 years.

Aside from this, Stan Van Gundy’s take on LeBron James also garnered much attention from the basketball fans in the community. He did not hold back from talking his mind on the podcast regarding this matter.

Stan Van Gundy jumps to defend LeBron James from the constant criticism he faces

James has long been the target of criticism, but since the Los Angeles Lakers’ early 2024–25 playoff loss, the voices have become louder. His choice to exercise his $52.6 million player option with the Lakers has most recently drawn criticism. To be fair, no matter what James does or decides, his decisions are always criticized.

SVG vehemently defended the all-time top scorer during a recent interview on the Nothing Personal with David Samson podcast, claiming that the dislike towards the King’s recent decisions is unjustified and illogical.

The most amazing thing to me is, this guy has been a national figure since he’s been in eighth grade, what’s the biggest off-court controversy you’ve got on this guy? This guy has done nothing except represent the game of basketball and the league well. And yet, there’s this hate for him.

Stan Van Gundy said