The New York Knicks got defeated by the Washington Wizards 115-99 on Friday, October 11th at MSG. The Knicks started out the gate fast, however, the Knicks became complacent with the lead which allowed the Wizards to get hot from the three-point line.
Lack of cohesion and a very poor shooting night from Elfrid Payton led the Knicks to a steep deficit. Bad turnovers by the Knicks allowed the Wizards to gain momentum and confidence. Wizards played with more intensity and they also had a great three-point shooting night, which always helps.
Almost everybody was up in arms after the dreadful loss suffered by the Knicks. However, ladies and gentlemen, please let’s not forget it’s still preseason and there’s a plethora of newly acquired young players on the Knick roster. It will take time for the Knicks to learn each other, and there’ll definitely be growing pains along the way.
After the loss, New York Knicks coach David Fizdale allegedly made the team watch 75 clips of pure defense. Fizdale wasn’t happy with the three-point defensive close-out efforts. This team is being molded into a defensive and physical team with depth.
Overall, it will take some time and games together for this unit to show signs of cohesion. With the mental make up of players on this current Knick roster, I wouldn’t worry about anybody not putting in the necessary effort for team success in the win and loss column. The players have respect for Fizdale and that shall continue to be tested as the season progresses. Hopefully injuries will stay at a minimum for this young and deep roster.