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Par Mathieu Seguin | Rédacteur sport
Tensions are rising around the Knicks following a decision with major consequences. The organization has ended Tom Thibodeau’s tenure, and some observers believe the players will have to step up quickly. That’s the clear message sent by a legend like Magic Johnson.
The saga surrounding the Knicks’ coach has stirred the NBA in recent weeks. By deciding to part ways with Tom Thibodeau, the New York franchise has turned an important page in its project, not without consequences. The future remains uncertain, as several options have fallen through in recent days while searching for a replacement.
Magic Johnson took this opportunity to remind everyone what such decisions imply. Having experienced this himself when playing for the Lakers, he wanted to send a pointed message to the leaders of New York, including Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns. They will be under pressure.
Are the Knicks in danger after their decision?
Magic Johnson : “There’s a lot of pressure on the players next season because if you fire the coach and this is what you wanted, now you gotta step up. I’ve been in this situation back in the Lakers and I wanted the coach gone and Paul Westhead, and it all fell on me if I wanted him gone,” Johnson continued. “Now I gotta step up, and we gotta win the championship. That same year that we fired Westhead, we went on and won the championship, right? So all the excuses are gone. Now next season, [Jalen] Brunson, if Karl-Anthony Town comes back, all you guys, the pressure is on them.”
The example is powerful: that year, the Lakers were crowned champions, proving that a coaching change can have a real impact. But as Magic points out, that is only possible if the players take responsibility and raise their level of play. It’s safe to say the leaders will be closely watched in the Big Apple.
Meanwhile, the Knicks remain in uncertainty as they wait for a new coach. Their cautious — even hesitant — approach suggests the right candidate is hard to find. Several franchises have refused to let go of their coaches, complicating the Knicks’ plans. Mike Malone could be a candidate followed closely in the coming days, among others.
The summer promises to be decisive for the Knicks. If management succeeds in stabilizing their bench and strengthening their roster, the players will have to deliver from the very start of the season. As Magic Johnson said: no more excuses will be accepted. This roster is not far from dreaming big.
