5. Defending The 3-Point Shot
The New York Knicks rank a respectable No. 14 in the NBA—in a good way—in opponent 3-point field goal percentage at .348. New York also ranks in the Top 10—also in a good way—in 3-point field goals allowed per game.
Encouraging as that may be, the 3-point shot has given New York trouble in 2016-17; it’s just a matter of where the games have been played.
This issue will be further explored on a future slide, but the Knicks’ ineffectiveness in defending the 3-ball on the road is troubling. The Knicks are allowing opponents to shoot 39.9 percent from 3-point range during games played away from Madison Square Garden.
It’s especially shocking when one considers the fact New York is holding opponents to 31.9 percent shooting from beyond the arc at Madison Square Garden.
It’s difficult to maintain a high level of energy on a road trip, but the Knicks must dig deep and close out with more energy. Allowing a 3-point field goal always hurts, but it’s especially difficult when the shot fires up the opposition’s crowd.
If the Knicks are going to maximize their potential as a contender, then defending the 3-point line at a higher level will be a key point of emphasis.