1. Prioritize defense
The New York Knicks, year to year, have defensive issues. Offensive-minded players usually assume top spots on their roster, which hurts play at the opposite end of the court, which previous NBA champions have thrived off (Boston Celtics, Miami Heat, Golden State Warriors).
Entering 2018, the Knicks were trending up. They sat 14th in defensive rating, unlike 25th in 2016-17. Something worked properly, which contributed to the 18-18 record.
However, when 2017-18 closed, New York was 23rd in defensive rating. Attribute that to Porzingis’ absence, Enes Kanter at center or Mudiay at point guard, but it still represented a startling downfall that contributed to their second-half woes.
Under a new head coach, and in a new season, the Knicks have continued to take a nosedive in defensive rating. They sit 29th, but as Mudiay, Hardaway, Knox and Kanter receive the bulk of the starter’s minutes, that’s almost expected. Reserves, Burke and Mario Hezonja, do not own defensive acumen, either.
The Knicks also allow the second-most points per game in the NBA, at 115.6, and let teams shoot 36.5 percent from behind the arc.
As long as this roster sticks, the Knicks will continue to have defensive problems in 2019. That can change with roster moves next summer, but over half the season remains in 2018-19, so it’s a long ride before the front office can find defensive-minded players.