Even as the noise and distractions grow louder at this time of the season, Tom Thibodeau is oblivious to it, tuning out, in particular, the criticism of his starting point guard, Elfrid Payton.
While Payton has struggled badly the last month and might have been the weakest link in the starting lineup before that, Thibodeau has been resolute in backing the embattled guard. It’s not the first time, but a pattern Thibodeau has followed throughout his career, giving the same sort of commitment to his players that he demands from them.
"Look, I’ve said this all along," Thibodeau said.