Stephen A. Smith criticized Knicks president Leon Rose for his “weak-ass statement” following the firing of coach Tom Thibodeau, who led the team to its first Eastern Conference finals since 2000. Smith called for Rose to face the media and explain the decision, expressing that the statement was insufficient given Thibodeau’s success, including back-to-back 50-win seasons. The Knicks are now searching for a new head coach, with Smith and others questioning the rationale behind the firing just after a strong playoff run.



