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New York Knicks Preview: The Keys To Defeating The Chicago Bulls

By Maxwell Ogden

Mar 23, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) controls the ball as Chicago Bulls guard Jimmy Butler (21) defends during the first half at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 23, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) controls the ball as Chicago Bulls guard Jimmy Butler (21) defends during the first half at the United Center. Mandatory Credit: Mike DiNovo-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 28, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) blocks a dunk attempt by New Orleans Pelicans forward Alonzo Gee (15) during the second quarter of a game at the Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 28, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; New York Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) blocks a dunk attempt by New Orleans Pelicans forward Alonzo Gee (15) during the second quarter of a game at the Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Protecting The Rim

The Chicago Bulls have shot the 3-ball surprisingly well during the early part of the 2016-17 NBA regular season. Dwyane Wade has been aggressive in the way he’s shot the 3-ball, Jimmy Butler is building towards an efficient season, and Nikola Mirotic is tapping into his potential.

The primary source of offense in Chicago, however, is the presence of multiple slashing guards who can get to the rim and finish with efficiency.

Wade is headed to the Hall of Fame on the strength of his all-time versatility, but his primary skill has always been his ability to get to the rim. Even at 34 years of age, Wade has no trouble creating penetration.

The same can be said for the more explosive Jimmy Butler and the incomparably crafty Rajon Rondo, who can weave through defenses with his eyes closed.

For the New York Knicks to secure a victory, Kristaps Porzingis and Joakim Noah must step up defensively. The perimeter defenders must step up, as well, but it’s Porzingis and Noah who must establish their dominance in the paint.

From there, the likes of Carmelo Anthony, Courtney Lee, and Derrick Rose would have a much easier time preventing penetration if Chicago’s wings were hesitant to go into the paint.

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