The New York Knicks must improve defensively to return to the postseason
The New York Knicks posted a record of 54-28 in the 2012-2013 season, the second-best mark in the Eastern Conference. Last season, the Knicks won just 37 games and missed out on the postseason. The New York Knicks finished 24th in defensive efficiency last year, which was a huge reason for their drop-off.
More from NBA
- NBA insider: Cavaliers should consider trading Donovan Mitchell
- NBA rumors: Hawks trade candidate, Sixers miss out, Lakers almost lose Reaves
- NBA insider explains real reason the Grizzlies were done with Dillon Brooks
- Knicks projected lineup and rotations heading into 2023-24 season
- Rockets projected lineup and rotations heading into 2023-24 season
According to Tommy Beer of Basketball Insiders, the New York Knicks must be much better defensively to return to the postseason.
"On the other hand, the other side of the floor will be a major issue for New York all year long. New York ranked 24th overall in defensive efficiency last season. And they finished 27 out of 30 teams in total rebounds collected. And, in order to upgrade at PG, New York had to sacrifice their best defensive player and top rebounder in Tyson Chandler. The only Knick, other than Chandler, to register more than 50 blocks last season was Andrea Bargnani."
The New York Knicks are preaching defense under president Phil Jackson and head coach Derek Fisher. If Iman Shumpert can stay healthy and Samuel Dalembert can give the New York Knicks solid minutes at center, they can get back to the playoffs.
Be sure to check FanSided’s official NBA page to keep up to date on the latest news and rumors from around the league as we close in on the regular season.
More from FanSided.com
NBA: 7 players with the most to lose in 2014-15
5 NBA players poised to break out in 2014
NBA: 10 impact rookies of 2014-15
NBA: Is this Andre Drummond’s year?
Dirk Nowitzki’s new shot to extend Dallas Mavericks career?