The New York Knicks are gearing up for the upcoming season with a strong focus on enhancing their defense, especially as they aim to compete with top teams like the Boston Celtics and Philadelphia 76ers. Relying solely on Donte DiVincenzo as a primary defender wasn’t sufficient, so the Knicks have shifted him to a scoring role off the bench.
Key Additions: OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges
To bolster their defense, the Knicks prioritized retaining OG Anunoby and acquiring Mikal Bridges, both of whom are elite defensive wings capable of guarding multiple positions. Anunoby’s size allows him to take on dominant players such as Joel Embiid, while Bridges brings versatility and can effectively defend stars like Paul George. These strategic moves are aimed at neutralizing top scorers throughout the league.
Head coach Tom Thibodeau commented, “The league has shifted; your 2s, 3s, and 4s are more wing-oriented now. Having players who can guard multiple positions allows for more switching.”
Thibodeau’s Approach: Versatility and Depth
Thibodeau elaborated on the plan for utilizing Anunoby and Bridges alongside Josh Hart, who will contribute off the bench. “Their versatility allows us to give different looks to primary ball handlers. We can rotate between DiVincenzo, Bridges, OG, and Hart, constantly changing our defensive assignments.”
Hart, often undervalued, proved to be a key asset last season. Although his minutes may be reduced with the new roster additions, his playmaking and rebounding abilities remain vital to the team’s defensive efforts.
Anunoby and Bridges as Defensive Pillars
The Knicks made a significant commitment to Anunoby, signing him to a five-year, $212.5 million contract, banking on his impressive defensive metrics. Last season, he achieved a career-high defensive rating of 116.6, which is expected to improve in New York. Bridges also boasts a strong defensive record, with a career rating of 113.3 and a 117.9 rating during his tenure with Brooklyn.
Both players have previously been in the conversation for the Defensive Player of the Year award. If the Knicks can harness their defensive potential, they will become a formidable challenge for opponents, making it difficult for teams to maintain consistent offensive production against their deep rotation.
Playoff Aspirations
With Jalen Brunson expected to lead the team effectively, the Knicks are optimistic about their playoff chances. The combination of Anunoby, Bridges, and Hart will form the backbone of their defense, and if they can successfully execute Thibodeau’s vision of a versatile and disruptive style, the Knicks could emerge as a tough contender in the Eastern Conference playoffs.