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Knicks’ defensive transformation
The New York Knicks entered Game 3 of their playoff series against the Detroit Pistons with a renewed sense of urgency. After facing criticism for their lack of physicality in the first two games, the Knicks came out swinging, showcasing a tougher and more engaged approach from the start.
This shift was evident in their defensive play, which was markedly improved compared to their previous outings. Paul Reed, the Pistons’ backup center, noted the Knicks’ increased physicality, stating, “Defensively, I mean, last game they were a lot more physical than they were before.” This change in strategy was crucial for the Knicks as they aimed to counter the Pistons’ intensity.
Rebounding as a key factor
One of the most significant areas of improvement for the Knicks was their rebounding. In Game 2, the Pistons dominated the boards, out-rebounding the Knicks by 14. However, in Game 3, the Knicks managed to turn the tide, finishing the first half with a plus-six advantage on the glass.
Coach Tom Thibodeau emphasized the importance of rebounding, stating, “A big part of winning is your defense, your rebounding, and keeping your turnovers down.” This focus on securing rebounds not only helped the Knicks maintain possession but also set the tone for their overall performance.
Intensity and physicality define the matchup
The intensity of the matchup was palpable, with both teams refusing to back down. The game featured several heated moments, including technical fouls assessed to key players like Karl-Anthony Towns and Mitchell Robinson.
Reed described the physicality on the court, saying, “Just like holding, pushing, making us work for every spot, every inch.” This level of engagement was a stark contrast to the Knicks’ earlier performances, where they appeared to struggle against the Pistons’ aggressive style of play.
Josh Hart acknowledged the improvement but recognized that there was still work to be done, stating, “The gap was tighter. It was better. But we still lost. So we gotta make sure we have a good emphasis on the glass.”
