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Knicks Face Game 6 Pressure as Thibodeau Timeout Decision Fuels Scrutiny

Coach Tom Thibodeau defends his Game 5 decisions while players rally behind him, and New York looks to adjust strategy to stay alive in Detroit.

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New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) brings the ball up-court in the first half during Game 5 in an NBA basketball first-round playoff series against the Detroit Pistons, Tuesday, April 29, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
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New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) and guard Josh Hart (3) talk with head coach Tom Thibodeau, right, during the second half of Game 4 against the Indiana Pacers in an NBA basketball second-round playoff series, Sunday, May 12, 2024, in Indianapolis. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)

Overview

  • Tom Thibodeau's late-game timeout decision in Game 5 left Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart sidelined for nearly two minutes, contributing to the Knicks' 106-103 loss to the Pistons.
  • The loss gives Detroit a 3-2 series lead, with the Knicks now needing a win in Game 6 to force a decisive Game 7 back in New York.
  • Thibodeau defended his decision as a calculated move, but it has reignited season-long criticisms of his coaching style, including slow pace and heavy reliance on starters.
  • Despite public backlash and rumors of potential offseason coaching changes, players like Josh Hart have publicly supported Thibodeau, emphasizing team unity.
  • The Knicks plan to play at a faster pace in Game 6 to disrupt Detroit's rhythm, while managing lingering injuries to Brunson and Hart under a demanding playoff schedule.