New York, New Problems?

Nine games into the season, could it be too early to overreact? The Knicks are 4-5 to start this promising season, but fans are starting to question some of the factors of the team.

Will the minutes regress the team?

Thibodeau is known for being heavy on his starters and using their minutes to a max, even in the regular season. We have seen this to start the season as multiple players have seen over 40 minutes in a game on separate occasions. This is certainly not the usual in the league today, as many teams like to give their big time players rest. However, the Knicks are in a bind awaiting returns of rotation players from injury. This could just be a phase at the beginning of the season, and hopefully will keep the player's health in their best interest for the team.

Bench rotation

The bench has been almost non-existent to start the season, going along with the heavy minutes. Seemingly running a six man rotation is not ideal for a contending team. Again, the team is expecting returns of Achiuwa and Robinson in the near future. However, McBride being the only source of offense off the bench could be an issue down the line. Kolek certainly should see the floor more as the season goes on, and the team should look into a situation where a wing can contribute off the bench as well. At this point in time, the Knicks rank dead last in bench minutes and points. This is something that should get better once the season picks up, but is a concern right now.

Finishing games with big performances

Multiple games this season have occurred with the Knicks looking to win games, and seemingly breaking down to the end the game. For example, a game where Brunson scores 33 and Towns 30, should not end in an 11 point loss to Indiana. This is where the team has struggled to finish games on multiple occasions. The big players are stepping up in their role, but haven't quite found themselves in the effort to stringing wins together so far. This again can relate back to the small rotation, or just not fully garnering that winning chemistry yet.

What needs to change?

The team to start the year have actually been one of the best offensive teams in the league, ranking second in offensive rating just behind Cleveland. It is interesting considering the team ranks last in pace amongst the league. The offensive certainly doesn't rush up the floor, but is working for them considering the amount of minutes they have to play currently. The new look lineup is succeeding so far offensively and should get even better as the season moves along. On the other side, the Thibs usual dominant defense, has been struggling to start the year. This can be said as a big factor for the losses they've suffered. The team ranks 21st in defensive rating, where they finished top 10 last year in the category. This is absolutely something that will have to be improved on as the season goes, as many teams have potent offenses that can shoot the ball. Achiuwa and Robinson will definitely be a huge help on the defensive side once back as well to help the likes of Anunoby and Bridges amongst others.

Overall, we cannot overreact just yet. This team is still finding their way with all of the changes that have happened. The team will pick it up on the defensive side, and continue to get better together offensively. The necessary adjustments should be in place in order for this team to perform how they were predicted.

Written by Anthony Ellis. 2024