The Knicks knew going into the off-season that they would require all-around exceptional defense in order to contend with clubs like the Boston Celtics and a rejuvenated Philadelphia 76ers. Donte DiVincenzo’s skill set was more suited as a significant scorer off the bench than as a major defender, therefore relying only on him would not be sufficient.
Strengthening the Knicks’ Defense: OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges
Get Mikal Bridges to bolster your defense with two outstanding wings that can cover guards and forwards. Because of his size, Anunoby can match up with players who are dominant, like Joel Embiid, while Bridges’ mobility and flexibility allow him to shut down opponents, like Paul George. The Knicks plan to stop the league’s best scorers includes these acquisitions.
“I believe that overall, the league has changed. You’re now more wing-oriented with your 2s, 3s, and 4s. You can switch around a lot more when you have players who can guard four positions, or in some situations, all five. As stated by Tom Thibodeau in a recent Q&A.
Thibodeau’s Vision: Versatility and Defensive Depth
Head coach Tom Thibodeau recently discussed how the Knicks plan to integrate OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges into their defensive schemes, while also utilizing Josh Hart off the bench.
“What it adds to us is the versatility of both, allowing us to give different looks to a primary ball handler,” Thibodeau explained. “We’ve been playing Donte [DiVincenzo] on those guys to start. Now we can come after that with Bridges, then OG, then Hart. We can constantly change up our look for who’s guarding that ball handler. Also, OG and Hart are very disruptive off the ball, so I like to use them that way. The versatility of the defense will be a big thing for us.”
Josh Hart, one of the team’s most underrated players, was a key energizer last season. Though his minutes may decrease with the addition of new players, Hart remains an essential part of the defense, offering excellent playmaking and hustle. While not an elite scorer, Hart excels at doing the dirty work and is one of the best rebounding small forwards in the league.
Anunoby and Bridges: Defensive Anchors
The Knicks signed OG Anunoby to a five-year, $212.5 million contract with a clear focus on his defensive prowess, highlighted by his career 110.6 defensive rating. Although last season he posted a career-high 116.6 rating, it’s expected to improve after a full season in New York. Mikal Bridges, with a career 113.3 defensive rating and a 117.9 mark from his time in Brooklyn last season, adds further strength to the Knicks’ defensive core.
Both Anunoby and Bridges have been in the Defensive Player of the Year conversation before, and if the Knicks can unlock their full potential, they will form a formidable defensive unit. Opponents will find it difficult to maintain consistent offensive production against the Knicks’ deep defensive rotation, making them a force to be reckoned with.
Playoff Hopes Rest on Defense and Brunson’s Leadership
With Jalen Brunson poised for another standout season, the Knicks have a solid opportunity to make a deep playoff run. Their defensive strength, enhanced by Anunoby, Bridges, and Hart, will be key to their success. If the team can effectively execute Thibodeau’s vision of a versatile and disruptive defense, they will emerge as a formidable contender in the Eastern Conference playoffs.
Leave a Reply