Brunson, visibly animated, expressed his utmost confidence in Thibodeau while addressing Barkley’s critiques. “Respectfully, whatever you guys say, we’re a close-knit group in that locker room,” he stated, emphasizing the team’s unity despite external opinions. However, he didn’t shy away from hinting at his confusion over Thibodeau’s player management, particularly praising the performances of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and other teammates who seemed underutilized.