The New York Knicks lost to the Cleveland Cavaliers in a 142-105 blowout on Friday, Feb. 21. Tom Thibodeau’s team is now 0-6 against the NBA’s top three clubs: the Cavaliers, Boston Celtics and Oklahoma City Thunder.
In recent years, Thibodeau’s Knicks have been lauded for their defensive intensity. Regardless of the talent on the roster, New York clawed on every possession, often shutting opponents down for significant stretches of games.
Yet, after adding OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges — two of the better wing defenders in the NBA, the Knicks have regressed. They’re 18th in the NBA in defensive rating. Yet, they sit third in offensive rating, largely due to Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns.
The numbers tell us that there’s been a significant shift in approach. A team built on a stern defensive system has thrown caution to the wind. What’s perplexing is that, on paper, this is the best defensive roster Thibodeau has had during his tenure with the franchise.
New York was always going to have teething issues. Adding three high-level players in such a short period was a risky move. Long-term, this Knicks roster will be a contender. However, they must first rediscover the defensive identity that led the front office to feel confident in pushing its chips all the way in.
There’s no denying that the Knicks can win a shootout game. Yet, their record against the top rosters in the NBA speaks volumes. Thibodeau must get his roster’s focus back on defense, on controlling the paint and limiting the perimeter.
Mitchell Robinson will be a welcomed addition once he eventually makes his season debut. His presence as a rim-protector should unlock everything, as players feel more comfortable staying home when they get beat.
Defense has been Thibodeau’s mantra for his entire career. It’s what will bring the best out of the rotation — it was built in his image, after all. Once the Knicks get back to what they do best, they will emerge as the biggest threat to the Celtics’ credentials as the top team in the Eastern Conference.
