New York Knicks: Joakim Noah mentoring Enes Kanter
New York Knicks center Enes Kanter is known to be a subpar defender. Thankfully, 2014 Defensive Player of the Year Joakim Noah has taken Kanter under his wing.
When the New York Knicks traded Carmelo Anthony, most were surprised by what general manager Scott Perry netted in return. Enes Kanter and Doug McDermott are quality young players, but Kanter plays one of New York’s deepest positions: Center.
Following a preseason during which Kanter appeared to separate himself from the pack, however, he’s making a concerted effort to address his remaining flaws.
Offensively, Kanter is as polished a post player and feared a pick and roll finisher as any center in the NBA. Defensively, however, he’s a player whom opponents look forward to matching up against due to his well-documented inefficiency.
According to Ian Begley of ESPN New York, Kanter has received advice on how to improve from an authority on the matter: 2014 Defensive Player of the Year Joakim Noah.
"“He’s always talking to me. He actually told me a week ago that, ‘I want you to take the next step. I want you to get to the next level defensively.’ And he’s been there for me, helping me a lot defensively, talking to me on the court, off the court. He’s been really trying to help me. And he’s one of the most respected guys in the NBA. He’s got 11 years in the league. He knows a lot. He’s got a lot of experience so I can really use his help.”"
Kanter may not be the most reliable defender in the NBA, but Noah may be the best possible mentor for him on that end of the floor.
The beauty of Noah mentoring Kanter is that the former Chicago Bulls star became an elite defender without being much of a shot-blocker. He utilized his energy, fearlessness, and physicality to impose his will on games, and anchored a consistently elite defense in the process.
For Kanter, who’s unlikely to develop into a shot-blocker at any point in his career, there couldn’t be a more fitting mentor to learn from.
The proper footwork and communication can be taught by a shot-blocker, but learning how to defend without blocking shots is another matter entirely.
Noah’s understanding of the verticality rule, as well as his willingness to play physically, made him difficult to drive on. He also learned to anticipate the pick and roll, had excellent footwork, and refused to let big men back him down without giving them a fight.
If Kanter can learn from Noah’s example and provide a similar level of raw energy on defense, his flaws will quickly be overlooked in favor of what he brings to the table.
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If nothing else, it’s hard to be anything but encouraged by the fact that Enes Kanter wants to become a better defender for the New York Knicks.
It’s even more intriguing that Joakim Noah is willing to take on the role of a mentor.