Article:
Digital Chew reports that two-time NBA champion, Kenny Smith, praises the coaching strategy of the New York Knicks’ Tom Thibodeau for successfully overcoming a scoring slump by star player Jalen Brunson in the team’s recent first two playoff games against the Philadelphia 76ers.
Key Takeaways:
– The Knicks are leading 2-0 in their series against the 76ers despite a poor shooting performance from their star player, Jalen Brunson.
– NBA champion Kenny Smith compares the Knicks’ coaching style to a “football team” system where the role of each player is important.
– Knicks’ key players such as Josh Hart have also risen to the occasion, showing impressive performances in the ongoing playoffs.
– The Knicks’ Coach, Tom Thibodeau, despite recent criticism, has shown commendable leadership leading the team to success.
Smith’s Commentary on Knicks’ Systems
On ‘Inside the NBA’, Smith credits the Knicks’ coaching setup for the 2-0 lead despite Brunson’s dismal shooting percentage of under 30%. He lauds Thibodeau’s system that allows different players to excel irrespective of the situation.
Smith likens Thibodeau’s coaching strategy to a football setting, emphasizing the importance of every player in the squad and the system’s effectiveness which suits even the less traditional roles within the team.
The Knicks managed to finish second in the East, despite missing three starters – Julius Randle, Mitchell Robinson, and OG Anunoby – in the regular season. They have continued their impressive form into the playoffs with six Knicks players averaging double figures in the first two games.
Star Performances Rising to the Occasion
One player worth mentioning is Josh Hart who has emerged as the Knicks’ best player in the opening round of the NBA Playoffs. Averaging 21.5 points to Brunson’s 23.0, he also showcases high rates in 3-point accuracy and rebounding. His vital game-winning steal and decisive passes have made a significant contribution to the Knicks’ success.
Defending Coach Thibodeau
Despite controversy surrounding Thibodeau – recently voted as the coach players would least like to play for in The Athletic’s Anonymous Player Poll – Smith’s comments attest to Thibodeau’s coaching prowess noted during the Knicks’ recent performances. The Knicks’ players were also quick to defend Thibodeau, expressing their disagreement with the poll’s results.
One such supporter, Donte DiVincenzo, dismissed the criticisms, emphasizing the difference between perception and reality when it comes to the Knicks’ coach. Hart also joined the defense, labelling critics of Thibodeau’s rigorous workouts as soft.
In conclusion, the progression of the playoffs will be crucial for the New York Knicks and their fans, as to whether the praises of Thibodeau’s football-like system contribute to their potential championship win. For now, the Knicks continue to impress under his leadership as they pave their way through the playoffs.
Source: [Heavy.com](https://heavy.com/sports/nba/new-york-knicks/kenny-smith-praises-tom-thibodeau-football-system/)