New York Knicks Takeaways From Opening Night Victory Over Milwaukee Bucks
Defense Steps Up
Oct 28, 2015; Milwaukee, WI, USA; Milwaukee Bucks center
Johnny O’BryantIII (77) loses the ball during the first quarter against the New York Knicks at BMO Harris Bradley Center. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Last season the Knicks defense was abysmal virtually all season. Teams got into the paint with ease, and without a rim protector they scored easily around the basket. That looks like days of the past, as the Knicks were really strong defensive tonight.
The Bucks made only 34.9 percent of their shots on the night, as the Knicks protected the rim well; Robin Lopez and Porzingis made it very difficult around the rim with their length. The only problem tonight came from deep, as the Knicks look like they may struggle at times defending the three-point shot.
Last season the Knicks were the worst team in the NBA defending the three-point shot, and through one night it is much of the same. The Bucks made 9-of-18 (50 percent) from deep, a percentage that will result in losses more often than not. Khris Middleton, Chris Copeland and Rashad Vaughn all made multiple three-pointers.
Next: New York Knicks 2015-16 Bold Predictions For Regular Season
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The one player that really gave the Knicks problems was Greg Monroe. Monroe spurned the Knicks in the offseason to sign with the Bucks, and he showed why the Knicks pursued him as he poured in 22 points with 14 rebounds, four assists, two steals and two blocks. Unfortunately for the Bucks, he was the only one able to really get anything going.