Stephen A. Smith criticized Tom Thibodeau, particularly questioning Jalen Brunson’s shot choices.
In a disappointing 114-109 Game 2 loss to the Pacers at Madison Square Garden, Thibodeau’s odd lineup decisions sparked frustration among Knicks fans, especially after Smith’s pointed remarks on ESPN.
Smith did, however, note Thibodeau’s choice to keep Karl Anthony Towns—named to the All-NBA third team earlier that day—on the bench for much of the fourth quarter.
“I can’t wrap my head around why he played Cat only 28 minutes,” Smith expressed on X-Video. “[Thibodeau] wants to sell us on defense, but when Mitchell Robinson was on the floor, the gap only widened.”
Many Knicks enthusiasts are calling for more playing time for Robinson, given his strong defensive skills and ability to grab offensive rebounds.
Thibodeau’s insistence on sticking with the same starting five backfired as the Knicks dug themselves a hole early in both the first and third quarters. Moreover, his choice of an offensively challenged lineup—including Cam Payne facing off against Brunson—proved detrimental as well.
In a crucial moment, Brunson took a long shot with eight seconds remaining, missing the opportunity to tie the game.
The Pacers could have strategically missed free throws to create offensive rebounds, leading to fouls that would have benefited the Knicks.
“It was a shot near the end of the shot clock,” Smith exclaimed in frustration. “I really don’t know what the thought process was.”
The Knicks trail 2-0 in the Best of 7 Eastern Conference Finals and will need to secure at least one win in their next two games in Indiana to return to Madison Square Garden.
“I’m not sure what more to say,” Smith lamented. “Well, I have plenty to say, but I’m hesitating. I just don’t understand what Tibs was thinking on Friday night.”
Does it seem like the series is over?
“It certainly feels that way,” Smith acknowledged. “I can’t say for sure, though.”
