For the first time in a long time, New York Knicks basketball is exciting midway through the season. On Thursday night, the Knicks dominated Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors, a team synonymous with winning for the past decade.
Going into the heart of this shortened NBA season, the Knicks are currently in 8th place in the Eastern Conference, competing for a playoff spot.
Coach Tom Thibodeau
The main reason for this new excitement in New York is because of Coach Tom Thibodeau. In his first year with the Knicks, Thibodeau has already rooted out the team’s losing culture. Coach Thibodeau’s method of coaching involves playing his stars for most of the game while sprinkling in different role-players throughout the game. Both Julius Randle and RJ Barrett are currently averaging over 35 minutes per game, far above the NBA average.
Free Agency
The 2021 Free Agency market is highlighted with superstars like Kawhi Leonard and Chris Paul, but the New York Knicks will not rush the process and sell the marbles. Leon Rose has been making tactical moves to build the roster from the bottom. With Thibodeau being able to develop young players like rookies Immanuel Quickley and Obi Toppin, the Knicks will be a hotspot for young free agents.
The Future of New York
The future of the Knicks under Thibodeau is bright, considering Thibodeau’s elite developmental skills, and the Knicks have the 4th youngest roster in the league. Tom Thibodeau will continue to transform the culture in New York while developing the youthful roster.
The team’s young talent will continue to develop while being lead by veteran coach Tom Thibodeau. In the future, New York will regain its title of being “The Mecca,” where players yearn to play at Madison Square Garden, in front of the most passionate fans on Earth.