When you think of the New York Knicks under the leadership of Tom Thibodeau, what aspect of basketball comes to mind? Is it their staunch defense, relentless rebounding, or the incredible work ethic required to play for the team?
A few years ago, it would have been unlikely for “three-point shooting” to be the answer. However, over the past four seasons, Thibodeau has focused on pushing his team further behind the three-point line, a surprising development for the traditionally traditional coach but one that has sparked his offense.
In his first season, the Knicks ranked 22nd offensively, with only 34.8 percent of their shot attempts coming from three-pointers, the 24th-highest mark in the league. By the second year, a shift had occurred: New York took 42.9 percent of their field goal attempts from three, making them 7th in the NBA for three-point attempts.
Despite these changes, they struggled to convert their three-point attempts. However, this season they have found a perfect balance, ranking 11th in percentage of field goals coming from three, and 7th in three-point accuracy.
This shift can be attributed to players like Jalen Brunson, a point guard who has become a more reliable three-point shooter, currently making 47.4 percent of his attempts. Other players like Julius Randle and RJ Barrett have also contributed to the team’s improved three-point shooting.
The introduction of newcomer Donte DiVincenzo has also had a significant impact, with his confident shooting from anywhere around the arc proving instrumental to the Knicks’ offensive strategy. However, the team’s reliance on three-point shooting has the potential to leave them susceptible to slumps.
The Knicks’ success will hinge on their ability to win games when their three-point shooting isn’t on par, as well as their capacity to generate high-quality looks from three-point range. Finding ways to capitalize on open three-point opportunities and producing easy buckets close to the rim will be essential.
Overall, the Knicks’ current season strategy is proving to be effective. If they can maintain their strong defensive play and continue shooting at a decent rate from three-point range, they will be a formidable matchup in the postseason.
Emily Turner is your source for everything NBA. As a dedicated basketball enthusiast, she offers insights into NBA games, player highlights, trade rumors, and the league’s evolving dynamics. Emily’s love for the sport shines through in her comprehensive NBA coverage.
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