The New York Knicks misplaced to the Cleveland Cavaliers in a 142-105 blowout on Friday, Feb. 21. Tom Thibodeau’s staff is now 0-6 in opposition to the NBA’s prime three golf equipment: the Cavaliers, Boston Celtics and Oklahoma Metropolis Thunder.
In recent times, Thibodeau’s Knicks have been lauded for his or her defensive depth. Whatever the expertise on the roster, New York clawed on each possession, usually shutting opponents down for vital stretches of video games.
But, after including OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges — two of the higher wing defenders within the NBA, the Knicks have regressed. They’re 18th within the NBA in defensive ranking. But, they sit third in offensive ranking, largely on account of Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Cities.
The numbers inform us that there is been a major shift in strategy. A staff constructed on a stern defensive system has thrown warning to the wind. What’s perplexing is that, on paper, that is one of the best defensive roster Thibodeau has had throughout his tenure with the franchise.
New York was all the time going to have teething points. Including three high-level gamers in such a brief interval was a dangerous transfer. Lengthy-term, this Knicks roster will probably be a contender. Nevertheless, they need to first rediscover the defensive identification that led the entrance workplace to really feel assured in pushing its chips all the best way in.
There is not any denying that the Knicks can win a shootout sport. But, their report in opposition to the highest rosters within the NBA speaks volumes. Thibodeau should get his roster’s focus again on protection, on controlling the paint and limiting the perimeter.
Mitchell Robinson will probably be a welcomed addition as soon as he ultimately makes his season debut. His presence as a rim-protector ought to unlock all the pieces, as gamers really feel extra snug staying house after they get beat.
Protection has been Thibodeau’s mantra for his total profession. It is what is going to convey one of the best out of the rotation — it was in-built his picture, in any case. As soon as the Knicks get again to what they do finest, they are going to emerge as the largest risk to the Celtics’ credentials as the highest staff within the Japanese Convention.
