Last year, the Knicks led the NBA in defending the 3-point line. This year, they are one of the worst in the league.
The Knicks are allowing the most made 3-point shots per game (15.7) and teams are shooting a robust 37.6 percent, which is fifth-worst in the NBA. Last season, opponents made just 33.7 percent, which was the best mark, and hit 12.0 per game, which was ranked 21st.
Wednesday night, their perimeter defense allowed the Bucks to hit 26 of 50 from distance in a 112-100 loss.
“Sometimes we aren’t contesting shots,” Julius Randle said. “We have to start contesting shots more.”
Overall, the Knicks’ defense hasn’t been what it was last year. They have a defensive rating of 110.3, which is tied for 26th in the league. It was 107.8, the fourth-best in the NBA, last year.
Patt Connaughton puts up a jumper as Taj Gibson defends during the Knicks’ 112-100 loss to the Bucks. N.Y. Post: Charles Wenzelberg
Randle said he believes the problem in defending the 3 is multiple efforts, meaning the help defense and rotations aren’t as consistent as they need to be.
Coach Tom Thibodeau praised the Knicks’ field-goal-percentage defense of 43.4 percent, which is sixth-best, and said their paint defense has been strong, but there are obviously improvements that need to be made.
“Finishing our defense is something we have to continue to work on,” Thibodeau said.
Randle didn’t have a problem with coach Tom Thibodeau sitting him and the other starters for the final 14:01 of the loss to the Bucks.
“Second unit came in, they did a great job all night,” Randle said. “They made a run, they made plays, they played hard, and they gave us the only shot that we had of winning that game last night. They did an amazing job, so I was very supportive.”
Center Nerlens Noel (knee) practiced on a limited basis Thursday, but his status is uncertain for Friday’s game against the Hornets. He missed the loss to the Bucks.
“He was moving around a little bit,” Thibodeau said. “I’d say he’s questionable.”
