New York Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau hinted at issues with referee Jacyn Goble during the Knicks’ recent loss to the Hawks. Last season, the Knicks filed a protest over a call by Goble in a game, which was denied. Despite calls being relatively even in the recent game, the Knicks were visibly upset with some decisions by the referees. Rookie Ariel Hukporti was injured in his G League debut, spraining his ankle in a game for Westchester. He was called up to the Knicks but ruled out due to the injury. Thibodeau said Hukporti’s injury is day-to-day.
Tyler Kolek, Pacome Dadiet, and Jacob Toppin, who had strong performances in the G League, were all called up to play for the Knicks against the Hawks. The Knicks’ backup center position has been inconsistent with Mitchell Robinson out, as Jericho Sims, Hukporti, and Precious Achiuwa have rotated minutes. Thibodeau experimented with different lineups, including playing Achiuwa and Karl-Anthony Towns together briefly before foul trouble disrupted it. Thibodeau also mentioned that Landry Shamet is practicing with contact as he recovers from a dislocated shoulder, moving closer to a return.
Overall, the Knicks faced challenges with injuries, player rotations, and officiating in their recent games, but continue to navigate through the adversity.
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