With three straight losses, the Knicks are already in trouble

Times are tough for New York. After setbacks against Miami and Milwaukee, the Knicks have been unable to turn things around against the Bullswho remain the last undefeated team in the Eastern Conference. Even more significant than the loss, Mike Brown was insulted by 135 points conceded.

“It’s very simple: we lacked a physical attack and it showed in the defense”, sums up the New York coach. “We didn’t defend the circle well in the first period. We fell out, possession after possession. The boys were able to get to the basket without resistance. In the second it was better, but in the first half the defense was completely absent.”

Even the return Mitchell Robinson and Myles McBride did not allow them to do more and better in defense. And for good reason: The Knicks weren’t really listening to their coach…

“There are many guidelines that have not been implemented”complains Mike Brown. “We didn’t have discipline in terms of instructions”confirms Jalen Brunson. “We didn’t do what was asked. The coach had a strategy and it’s up to us to implement it. We can’t change it if we don’t invest enough.”

First response to provide

In addition to the defense, the contribution of the bench is also problematic. Josh Hart, Gershon Jabussel and Jordan Clarkson combined for just 9 points on 2/8 shooting in the loss to Chicago. None of the three have yet weighed in this season.

“We still have a little time to worry, but our bench has to be better”warns the coach. “We have to shoot, finish close to the circle, have easy transitions or layup baskets. We’re not doing any of that right now.”

The next seven games are played at Madison Square Garden, and the next, on Sunday night, again against Chicago. Perfect for getting back on track and getting revenge.

“We’ve lost three games in a row and trouble comes early in the season. I’m curious to see how we react.”Mike Brown comments. “Adversity is a big test for us. It’s early, but it’s good. I want to see what kind of reaction this group can offer.”