Tom Thibodeau opened his pregame press conference by offering his “deepest condolences” to the Warriors and the family of Golden State assistant coach Dejan Milojevic, who died Wednesday after suffering a heart attack the day before.
“It's a tragic loss. He was a great ambassador for this game. So our thoughts and prayers are with all of them,” Thibodeau said before Wednesday's win over the Rockets at the Garden. .
Milojevic, a 46-year-old native of Serbia, was hospitalized in Salt Lake City on Tuesday night after suffering an emergency at a private team dinner, according to the Warriors.
Milojevic has been part of Steve Kerr's coaching staff since 2021.
Josh Hart admitted he doubted whether to play Wednesday night because of soreness in his left knee, but he recorded a double-double with 10 points (including eight in the fourth quarter) and 13 rebounds in 30 minutes off the bench. did.
“This season has definitely been interesting for me,” Hart said. “Normally he would have an additional 2¹/₂ months off. [in the offseason]. It usually ends on April 12th, but last year it ended on May 12th.It was tough, and obviously [played the] FIBA [World Cup with Team USA].
“So I try to keep my body healthy. I didn't know if I was going to go because my knee was a little sore. But I woke up today feeling a little better.”
Thibodeau, who celebrated his 66th birthday Thursday, provided a vague update on center Mitchell Robinson, who underwent ankle surgery in December with hopes of returning by the end of the regular season.
“He's following the medical protocols and the medical protocols have arrived and he's doing what they want him to do. So he's doing well and overall he's doing well,” Thibodeau said.
The Knicks coach declined to say whether Robinson is still walking, running or still wearing the boots, adding, “He's doing well.” Like 4 weeks, 6 weeks, 8 weeks. [steps], which means he's just following the protocol and hitting the mark every step of the way. He's doing well and we're very happy with that. And I hope he's able to do more and see more of him soon. ”
