The New York Knicks put on a defensive clinic against the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday night. The Knicks downed the Grizzlies 143-106. Not only did this mark the second straight game where New York eclipsed 140 points, but it was also one of their most complete defensive efforts of the season. Many of their stars took notice of their stoutness after the win.
Knicks coaches and players laud defense vs. Grizzlies
Per Posting and Toasting’s Antonio Losada, Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau raved about his troops’ efforts, especially on Memphis’ franchise player:
“I thought our defensive activity was terrific. Big-time multiple-effort game. Twenty steals. OG [Anunoby] and Mikal were all over the place. And that set the tone for us,” Thibodeau said. “I thought Mikal really worked [guarding Morant]. I thought our team did. And a guy like [Morant], you try to make him work.”
Ja Morant was held to a mere 10 points on 5-13 shooting from the field. Morant is one of the best and most electric scorers in the league. Thus, him being held to over 10 points less than the 20.3 points per game season he averages on the season speaks to the tenacity in which Bridges played with against him.
Anunoby and Bridges are two of the best perimeter defenders in the league. The Knicks can solidify their championship front on the backs of them both the rest of the way out. That being said, those two former All-Defensive contributors were not the only ones to laud on the night.
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Knicks can build on definitive defensive effort on Monday
Knicks star forward Mikal Bridges had this to say about the team’s growth in continuity and execution on the preventative side of the floor:
“Just time together, practices, knowing that we need defense. Offense can win us some games but not where we want to get to,” Bridges said after the game. “[We’re] learning about each other. Think we’re going in the right direction.”
New York limited Memphis to only nine three-pointers made in the affair. Though the Grizzlies shot efficiently, the turnover battle was the deciding factor in the matchup, as the Knicks forced 26 and gave up only 11.
The Knicks will look to build off of this standard-setting win and add a finish to a championship-level defense they can drill in just before and after the upcoming All-Star break.