In the 2023-24 season, the New York Knicks, under the leadership of head coach Tom Thibodeau, continue to showcase their tough style, particularly standing out in defense and rebounding. While many outsiders perceive the Knicks as a team that leans toward perimeter shooting, they actually shine much more in controlling the boards. Even with Mitchell Robinson missing significant time, the team has maintained an impressive total rebound rate of 57.7%, a figure that far surpasses the league average.
Robinson’s return has injected a solid strength into the team, making his influence during games hard to ignore. In the playoff match against the Boston Celtics, he played for 43 minutes, leading the team to a decisive 32-point victory. He has become the anchor for the Knicks’ interior defense, effectively limiting opponents’ shooting percentage in the paint to just 42%. Moreover, he has created numerous second-chance opportunities for his teammates, ensuring that the rhythm of both offense and defense carries on seamlessly.
This season’s challenges come not only from rivals but also from injuries and changes to the roster. After losing Isaiah Hartenstein, the team clearly struggled with depth in the paint, and Robinson’s injury woes forced the squad to seek reinforcements, ultimately leading to the acquisition of Karl-Anthony Towns. Although this move has increased the overall depth of the lineup, the team’s net rating has not improved as expected; instead, it has slightly declined, indicating that tactical integration will still require time to mesh.
In terms of tactical style, Thibodeau’s approach, once renowned for its defensive intensity and discipline, seems to have shifted slightly this season. Particularly when facing teams of similar or even greater strength, the Knicks’ defensive performance has struggled to maintain consistency throughout the game, with rotations and paint protection faltering in crucial moments. However, as soon as Robinson takes the court, the quality of the defense dramatically improves, proving he is not just a center for the team, but a formidable defensive wall.
Data shows that when Robinson is on the court, the New Yorkers maintain a steady advantage in both offensive and defensive rebounds, further suppressing their opponents’ second-chance scoring efficiency. Compared to the Boston Celtics, the New Yorkers exhibit greater aggressiveness and efficiency in rebounding battles, highlighting a key factor that enables them to remain competitive in tough games. Even if the starting lineup can’t sustain a high-intensity performance for long periods, Robinson’s consistent output remains a pivotal factor in the team’s quest for victory.
As the playoffs progress, the New Yorkers hope to recapture a style rooted in defense and dominance in the paint under Thibodeau’s guidance. Robinson’s health will directly impact the team’s ability to go further in the postseason; he is not just a defensive cornerstone but also a symbol of the team’s belief and determination.
