New York Knicks Preview: Keys To Defeating Los Angeles Lakers
2. Transition Defense
The New York Knicks have been underwhelming on defense during the 2016-17 NBA regular season. They’e improved on defense during home games, but have been rather underwhelming and absent of energy on the road.
If the Knicks come out with the same lackadaisical approach in Los Angeles, the Lakers will run up the score and secure an extreme advantage.
The Lakers are currently No. 10 in the NBA with an average of 14.6 fast break points per game. Los Angeles is also No. 6 in total transition points and and No. 8 in the Association in transition points per game.
The Knicks, meanwhile, rank No. 10 in the NBA in points allowed per transition possession, and not in a good way.
The Knicks have the personnel to play at a high level on defense—both in transition and in the half court. Playing without energy has been one of the primary issues for the Knicks in 2016-17, however, which is why success against the Lakers could be elusive.
New York and Los Angeles both aim to push the pace, but the Knicks are the team that’s more likely to struggle on defense. Energy will be key.