New York Knicks 6 Takeaways From The Preseason

Defensive Improvements

Oct 9, 2015; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Wizards guard Ish Smith (5) dribbles the ball as New York Knicks guard Langston Galloway (2) defends in the fourth quarter at Verizon Center. The Knicks won 115-104. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

While it is tough to take away stats and performance from a relatively lax setting such as the preseason, the Knicks defense does look much improved. The Knicks were poor defensively last season, ranking 21st in points allowed, 27th in opposing team’s shooting percentage and last in defending the three-point line. Through the preseason, those all looked like numbers that would be improved this season.

The focus in free agent was clear, as the Knicks looked to shore up the defensive end of the court. Lopez was the first domino in that process, and he should provide steady production as a rim protector. Add the 7-feet-3 inch Porzingis next to him, and the Knicks have one of the bigger, intimidating duos in the front court in terms of length. Kyle O’Quinn is also a strong defender, further boosting the Knicks defense.

That size will make it difficult for opposing team’s to score at the rim, while the Knicks also improved their perimeter defense. Calderon will never be a stalwart at the point of attack, but rookie Jerian Grant certainly is capable. Last season Langston Galloway graded out positively on defense, and that should continue. Their length on the perimeter will be tough to contend with as they should be pests in the passing lane.

Last season the Knicks had too many players that were one-dimensional whose strengths were on offense. This season, the roster is much more balanced as the Knicks look to be much improved defensively throughout the preseason.

Next: Improved Roster Equals Improved Bench