Celtics defensive guru Tom Thibodeau is one of the highest paid assistant coaches in the NBA, reportedly pulling in more than $1 million per season, according to Tom Ziller of NBA Fanhouse.
And it's this big price tag that might be scaring off teams from hiring Thibs as their head coach. Another strike against Thibs, his reputation for being too serious.
Here's what Jeff Van Gundy (Thibs worked for him in NY and HOU) says about Thibs demeanor:
“Whatever
that means,” Van Gundy repeated. “How you relate to players is what
matters. You do it by giving a good plan, putting them in the position
to succeed, maximizing their potential, building trust, and eventually
faith brings results. Pat Riley wasn’t a yuckster, believe me. I don’t
think Phil Jackson brings a lot of levity. But being serious-minded
suddenly has this negative connotation.”
The Hornets brass flew to Boston yesterday to interview Thibodeau for their head coaching vacancy. Thibs is also a candidate for the New Jersey job.
If the Celtics can get past the Cavs by playing superior defense, I gotta think that will be enough to put Thibodeau in a head coaching position.