Several differences between TO at that time and Riley now. One thing and it's a major thing, as far as giving time to Riley to see if he turns it around. Riley is in his mid 60's, by the time he he figures it out (if he ever figures it out) he will probably be in his late 60's at looking at retirement leaving us to rebuild all over again. So why not cut ties now rather then hoping to see if something changes in the next couple years and having to rebuild after that.
Why rebuild if he becomes suddenly successful? Because a new coach will likely bring in his own new system that will be different then Riley's and we will again have to wait around for that coach to get his players.