The New York Knicks fired head coach David Fizdale on Friday after a 21-83 record over the past two seasons, including a 4-18 mark to begin the 2019-20 season.
The Knicks have lost nine consecutive games, including the last eight games under Fizdale, to claim the worst record in the NBA. New York has the worst point differential after being outscored by 10.5 points per game and has the worst offense, managing just 102 points per 100 possessions.
Following the firing of Fizdale, several players on the roster voiced their appreciation for their former head coach, including first-round pick R.J. Barrett, via Marc Berman of the New York Post.
It’s tough but at the end of the day it’s basketball and you got to go out and do your job. I appreciate everything Coach Fizdale and Coach Smart have done for me. They were the first ones to give me a chance in the league, so I appreciate them. I spoke to Coach Fizdale. [He] wished me the best.
Among the many issues Fizdale faced, he often drew criticism for how he handled Barrett’s workload. Barrett currently leads all rookies with 32.1 minutes per game but the second overall pick defended his coach this season, saying he has no problem with his playing time.
As the Knicks prepare for yet another coaching search, the organization could opt to turn toward a coach with a track history of developing players with so many young guys on the roster.
The Knicks play next on Sunday against the Portland Trail Blazers.
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