The New York Knicks shocked the NBA by firing head coach Tom Thibodeau—just weeks after reaching the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in 25 years. In this emergency episode of Locked On NBA, Doug Branson is joined by Matt Moore and Haize to break down the timing, the fallout, and what it says about the Knicks’ title ambitions.

Matt doesn't mince words, calling Thibodeau "a coach that runs his course" and pointing to OG Anunoby and McHale Bridges as players underutilized in Tibbs' system. Haize wonders if the Knicks are trying to get ahead of a weak Eastern Conference and push into the title picture next season.

Could Mike Malone be the perfect replacement? Both Matt and Haize think so—citing his championship pedigree, New York roots, and ability to get the most out of star players. But what happens to Rick Brunson? And does this move signify more separation between player and power in New York?

Plus, the crew dives into what this means for players like Josh Hart, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Jalen Brunson, and whether this bold coaching change signals that Leon Rose has truly raised the bar at MSG.

If the Knicks want more than a feel-good story, was firing Thibodeau the only path forward?

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