In a recent column from Chris Mannix of SI.com, the scribe opined that the Rockets need to make a run at hiring former Bulls head coach Tom Thibodeau. Mannix’s reasoning was that Thibodeau’s hard-nosed defensive approach was needed if the team hoped to maximize the full potential of its roster, as well as revamp its woeful defense. Of course, it would remain to be seen how well Thibs’ personality would mesh with the likes of Dwight Howard and James Harden, neither of whom are well-known for their ability to accept tough coaching. Nevertheless, the idea of the Rockets straying from their preferred run-and-gun style of recent seasons and transitioning into a grittier defensive squad is an interesting one, though it’s no given that Thibs’ system would thrive in the much tougher and faster Western Conference.
This brings me to today’s topic: Should the Rockets make a run at hiring Tom Thibodeau as coach?
Is Thibs’ style just what the franchise needs to move forward in the West, or would his system be a hindrance given the competition in the conference? Could Harden and Howard thrive under Thibodeau, or would this grouping result in more back page headlines than wins? Head to the comments section below to share your thoughts, opinions, as well as best and worst case scenarios if coach Thibs were to join the Rockets. We look forward to what you have to say.
No-There would be huge collisions with Harden and Howard. Tom is a drill sergeant, those two players wouldn’t be able to handle it.
That may be part of the appeal to Houston. If both players feel a sense of entitlement, maybe a coach like Thibs is needed to shake things up and show some “tough love.” I do think Howard would adjust better than Harden to Thibs’ system, though not necessarily to the coach’s demeanor. Also…maybe Thibs learned from his mistakes in Chicago and will be a more-balanced coach when he gets his next gig.
Hahahahahahahaha!
Balanced, yes, certainly.
Not Thibs’ strength.
He’d be an excellent hire for the Rockets. They need a defensive-minded head coach to get to next level.
Why wouldn’t you want Howard the thibs on the same team at this point? He could do wonders for the big man not to mention capella and Beverly
I’m not so sure Thibs would fit with the analytically minded Daryl Morey, but then Morey and McHale functioned well together, and they were pretty strange bedfellows. I actually think few jobs would be right for Thibs, who has such a stubborn will. Many front offices aren’t willing to deal with personalities like that. I don’t know that Thibs is cut out for a dual coach/executive role, either. Can you envision him dealing with agents and negotiating contracts?