The New York Knicks have now dropped three straight games, with their latest loss coming against the Orlando Magic on Monday night. This stumble comes as the Knicks began a crucial 5-game homestand following what analysts have called "the hardest schedule in the NBA." Starting with a tough matchup against the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Knicks have started this stretch with an 0-3 record.
Knicks News: The Knicks' Three-Point Shooting Woes
The team’s biggest issue? They all of a sudden cannot shoot from three. Over the past three games, the Knicks have combined to shoot just 21 of 84 from beyond the arc, translating to a dismal 25.0% three-point shooting percentage. In today’s NBA, where perimeter shooting is essential, that simply won't cut it.
This marks a stark contrast to where the Knicks were just a week ago—riding high on a 9-game win streak and looking like one of the league’s most dangerous teams. Now, after three straight losses, the good vibes have been replaced with growing concerns.
What's the Fix?
The Knicks' problems go beyond cold shooting. One glaring issue is the unsustainable minutes load on their key players.
Currently, the Knicks have three players in the top 10 for minutes per game, with Mikal Bridges leading the league at 39.2 minutes per game. This heavy workload is taking a toll, leading to tired legs and missed shots. Even Mike Breen pointed this out during the MSG broadcast, emphasizing the need for change.
So, what needs to happen? Tom Thibodeau must expand the rotation.
With Deuce McBride out due to a hamstring injury, Thibodeau has been relying on an 8-man rotation. However, he has viable options on the bench, including Precious Achiuwa, Landry Shamet, Cameron Payne, Tyler Kolek, and Ariel Hukporti. These players need opportunities to contribute, especially to preserve the health of key stars like Karl-Anthony Towns, who is already dealing with a knee injury.
Towns has expressed his determination to do whatever it takes to win, but at this pace, exhaustion and injuries are inevitable. After back-to-back playoff exits due to injuries, the Knicks cannot afford to let history repeat itself.
Looking Ahead
The New York Knicks will face the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday night in a must-win game to regain their footing. Can they fix their three-point shooting struggles? Will Thibodeau make the necessary adjustments to the rotation? Knicks fans will be watching closely.
Comments