When a fan suggested he didn’t want to stay with the Lakers, Hayes quickly responded, denying the claim and teasing the possibility of returning next season
Hayes experienced a roller-coaster second year with the Lakers but became an important contributor to the team’s success, especially in the latter half of the season following the arrival of Luka Doncic.
This season, Hayes averaged 6.8 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 0.9 blocks over 56 games, showing improvement across the board compared to his rookie year.
The New York Knicks enjoyed their best season in 25 years, but despite this success, the team has decided to go in a different direction by parting ways with head coach Tom Thibodeau.
To express his gratitude to the city of New York and the Knicks organization, Thibodeau took out a full-page advertisement in The New York Times thanking everyone for their support during his time with the team.
“To the best city in the world with the best fans in the world: Thank you,” Thibodeau wrote.
When I was hired in 2020, I said this was my dream job. I am grateful that dreams became a reality. Thank you to our players and coaching staff who gave everything they had, and to everyone who makes this franchise special.
I am proud of everything we accomplished together, including four playoff appearances and this year’s run to the Eastern Conference finals — our first in 25 years.”
“And to the fans, thank you for believing in me and embracing me from day one. Watching you support our team, and seeing the Garden ignite with that incomparable Knicks energy, is something I will never forget,” coach concluded.
Thibodeau still had 3 years left on his contract with the Knicks, but now the they are deep in their search for a new head coach.
Catch up on all the latest rumors about the New York Knicks head coach right here:
