New York Knicks: The Real Problem Is Still Basketball Related

Defensive Consistency, Part II: The Fix

The best way to summarize the issues with the New York Knicks is to say that it doesn’t look like they’re trying on defense. Looks can be deceiving, but both Carmelo Anthony and Brandon Jennings have publicly blasted the Knicks for that very issue.

Thus, if one is to diagnose the issues on the defensive end of the floor, then the starting point should be giving a concerted and consistent effort.

Beyond trying hard, the Knicks need to close out better on shooters, avoid foul trouble, and control the defensive boards. For perspective, New York has allowed 11.6 3-point field goals made per loss on 39.6 percent shooting from distance.

The Knicks have limited opponents to just 7.9 3-point field goals made per game on 31.3 percent shooting from beyond the arc during wins.

New York is also allowing more free throw attempts per game than all but three teams in the NBA and ranks No. 27 in offensive rebounds allowed per game. It’s also letting up the second-most second chance points and 11th-most points off of turnovers per game of any team in the NBA.

New York is allowing a combined 51.3 points per game off of free throws, offensive rebounds, and turnovers. That’s 51.3 points that are entirely preventable.