Kendrick Perkins has sternly criticised New York Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau for his decision to rest OG Anunoby in his recent 106-115 defeat to the Detroit Pistons.
The former NBA champion turn analyst considers this coaching decision to be a key strategic error that could have psychological implications for potential playoff matchups.
“We’re watching the game last night. It’s the most likely matchup we’ll see in the first round. If you’re the New York Knicks, why do you want OG anunoby to rest?” Perkins asked.
“We should try to send a statement and send a message to question this young team of the Detroit Pistons and say, ‘No, we can’t ruin us.’ ”
Perkins pointed out that Anunoby’s absence had a direct impact on the game, allowing piston star Cade Cunningham to rule with minimal resistance.
Cunningham exploded 36 points with an impressive 66.7% shooting from the field, providing what Perkins described as “MVP-type performance.”
“But instead, you’ll let them leave. CadeCunningham has an MVP type of performance.
“And I’m watching Tom Thibodeau right now, and I’m saying you’re in the hot seat and you’re under pressure,” Perkins emphasized.
ESPN analysts have linked Thibodeau’s situation to a recent trend in surprising coaching layoffs across the league, suggesting that even successful coaches are not safe in today’s NBA climate.
“I’m looking at what’s going on throughout the league, I’ve seen Taylor Jenkins fire.
“We saw Michael Malone fired and Tom Thibodeau to play in the final of the meeting,” Perkins warned.
“If not, I don’t think he’s the head coach of the New York Knicks this season.”
What makes this criticism particularly pointed out is the possibility that the Knicks and Piston will face each other in the first round of the playoffs.
Currently sitting third and sixth in the Eastern Conference, this regular season matchup could have been a valuable opportunity to establish a psychological advantage ahead of a potential playoff series.