There is good and bad at the start of the season, but the Knicks have a balanced record (4v-4l), and a victory at the end of the day against the Hornets would allow them to move into the positive and climb to the 4th place in their conference, tied with the Heat, Pacers, Magic and Bucks.
To compensate for the problems of Julius Randle, but also the absences of RJ Barrett, Tom Thibodeau relies on a strong defense, the 2nd in the NBA, and a very effective “second unit”. The departure of Obi Toppin was offset by the arrival of Donte DiVincenzo, and the rapid integration of the former Warrior impressed Immanuel Quickley.
“I find it quite unique, this cohesion on and off the pitch” underlines the 6th New York man. “When you have guys who fit in right away without having spent a lot of time together, that’s always a sign of something that can be special.”
Less size, more energy and speed
Overall, the entire “second unit” is well on the field, and Tom Thibodeau appreciates playing together RJ Barrett, Isaiah Hartenstein, Josh Hart, Immanuel Quickley and Donte DiVincenzo. Collectively, we share the ball, we run, and we throw ourselves at the rebound. Everything a coach loves.
“I love how the pace of the match changes with the second unit” appreciates Tom Thibodeau, who also insists on the general rebound domination of his players. This season, the Knicks are number 1 in defensive rebounding, with almost 80% of the possible catches. “Mitch [Robinson] has really made progress in this area. Josh Hart’s rebounds are important. But there is also our back, [Immanuel Quickley] gets rebounds, Donte [DiVincenzo] is a good rebounder…” reminds the coach.
For Tom Thibodeau, Josh Hart is the player who symbolizes the good performance of this “second unit”, particularly on the rebound. Not very tall, he always had this ability to grab rebounds.
“With Josh at 4, everyone is concerned about the lack of size. But for me, Josh can defend and he’s a great rebounder.” assures Tom Thibodeau. “Our rebound is impressive and we must continue like this. Josh is an out wide player, but he has unique versatility. Usually, when you lack size, you sacrifice your defense and your rebounding. With Josh, we don’t do that. »
