It had been a long time since there had been such a big illusion in the Big Apple at the start of the season. The founding of the new sporting project with Tom Thibodeau at the helm raised some doubts at the start of last season, which quickly dissipated with the team’s great performance, but it appears that Knicks de New York He has done an impeccable job in the market and can present himself as a staunch opponent in the ring. Their two initial wins showed just how far the team can go if all the pieces still fit together, and it’s hard not to dream of seeing the Knicks fight for everything to the end.
1. An outdoor game that is difficult to improve
They have it all. A star point guard like Kemba Walker to give the keys to the city and allow him to lead and score, relieving him of his sole responsibility in attack and giving him a strong case to pass the ball. His replacement is more than solid, with a hugely committed Derrick Rose who brings that necessary experience in a team with dynamite in positions of 2 and 3. And it is that RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley amazed last year, but they seem to have acquired a particular aura in this season, which should be that of its final blossoming. If an absolutely reliable player like Evan Fournier joins in, the equation is clear.
2. The relationship as a team and the appropriation of their own style
To be successful in the NBA, you not only have to be very good, but also have your own identity, a characteristic style with which you can reach the end no matter what. Defend hard and run, this is the maxim that Thibodeau has conveyed since his arrival, aware that he has a lot of young players in his hands who need to have fun on the court. With a necessary tactical order and a defensive, but not oppressive, rigor, this gives them competitiveness and gives them that offensive freedom so necessary for the circulation of talent.
3. Julius Randle’s maturity as a consolidated star
What the power forward did last year was spectacular, but he’s ready to show that it wasn’t a coincidence, but that the design of the big league star won him hard and has arguments. to enjoy. He has improved all of his resources and the competitive experience for all being the most important player, it has made him mature and make better decisions on the pitch. You can be a good candidate for MVP.
4. Obi Toppin and Mitchell Robinson, the best “signings”
Imposing physique, ability to play on the rim, constant rebound and intimidating power. This is what two men with incredible potential yet to develop, who failed to unleash it last season, bring. Without them, the Knicks were fourth in the Eastern Conference, so it’s great to think how far they can go if they keep up the good playing tone they’re showing off this start.
5. The ambition to go further
All players feel like they are part of an exciting project, like bringing a dark franchise back to life for too long. They made a huge effort to earn the league’s respect last season and now they want to show that it wasn’t all for nothing. Falling like they did in the first round of the playoffs was a really big blow that will only keep them trying to progress this season.
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