Being the 3rd seed and two straight losses, the New York Knicks can’t lose their momentum. But limping Karl-Anthony Towns means panic for the Knicks fans. The 29-year-old center has been nothing less than a beacon of hope for New York since his arrival. But that fourth-quarter horror that unfolded at TD Garden on Sunday has left the fans furious. They have a big question for the head coach Tom Thibodeau. But before that let’s see what happened…

The New York Knicks were pushing hard for a comeback early in the fourth. But then—trouble struck. During a timeout, Karl-Anthony Towns limped to the bench, clearly in pain. Moments later, the New York star center disappeared into the locker room for evaluation. For a while, the tension hung heavy. Then, in a surprising turn, Towns returned to the bench—his status still uncertain. However, he was back on the floor. What?

Meanwhile, Dr. Evan Jeffries shared his observations on KAT’s injury on his X handle. One good news here is that the 5x All-Star most likely doesn’t have an ACL injury. However, the expert is assuming it could either be an MCL (Medial Collateral Ligament) sprain or a meniscus injury.

Besides, Towns left the locker room, cleared training checks, and rejoined the game with over four minutes left. But the damage was already done. The Celtics had already stretched their lead to 18 points, sealing the game. Yet, in true Tom Thibodeau fashion, Towns was back on the floor—playing meaningless minutes, with tired bodies paying the price.

Thus, the Knicks fans are furious. They want some answers from Coach Thibs. What was he thinking about bringing back the injured player back on the floor? It’s safe to say, the fans are not amused by the stunt the legendary coach pulled up. Risky is the word you’re looking for!

Karl-Anthony Towns’ return to the floor enraged NBA community against Tom Thibodeau

“It is an absolute CRIME that KAT was back out on the floor. WHAT WAS THIBS THINKING??????” Karl-Anthony Towns was clearly in pain when he was rushed to the locker room. Even after he returned he looked uncomfortable. He checked in, but was that necessary? The All-Star center has been struggling with his knee lately. With the postseason nearing, the Knicks can’t afford to have KAT sidelined. Therefore, the NBA community lashed out at Coach Thibs for being ‘careless’ in this case.

Meanwhile, another fan called out: “Honestly what is Thibs doing putting KAT back on the floor? What is he trying to prove here? The guy can’t move and this game is over.” Well, the medical experts already have a rough analysis of what might have happened to Tom Thibodeau‘s 7-foot star. Either an MCL sprain or a meniscus injury is being predicted. Whichever it is, it’ll keep him out of action for weeks. In such a situation to bring KAT back in the game, the head coach must keep his reasons and justifications handy because the fans aren’t going to leave without an explanation!

“Thibs just runs a 7-man rotation for 46 minutes a game every year and people wonder why his teams are never healthy enough to win anything lmao.” It looks like the NBA fans are simply spewing out their disappointment and frustration. Maybe, Thibodeau’s careless decision with Karl-Anthony Towns was enough to trigger the fans who have been waiting for a championship for the last 5 decades.

Meanwhile, the creative Knicks supports resorted to GIFs to explain the situation:

At the same time, Dr. Evan Jeffries also noted that Karl-Anthony Towns should also be asked why he went back into the game. It was clear that he was in pain, and his knee wasn’t in a great condition. Was it his hunger to win the game that made him come out despite the discomfort?

Karl-Anthony Towns’ late-game return has sparked outrage. With potential knee injuries looming, fans are questioning Tom Thibodeau’s risky call. Despite the game slipping away, Thibs sent KAT back in—raising concerns about player safety. Was it desperation? Misjudgment? Either way, the Knicks can’t afford to lose their star now. As the postseason approaches, every decision matters. This one might haunt them.