How Did Knicks Impress Tom Thibodeau?

New York ranks among the bottom four teams in the NBA regarding bench scoring for the 2024-25 season. Without Mitchell Robinson, Thibodeau trusts Karl-Anthony Towns to play extended minutes as a surprisingly adequate defender. Aside from Miles McBride, no other player on the Knicks' bench averages above eight points. 

In the last five games, the Knicks showcased what it means to outperform expectations. Thibodeau complimented the Knicks' second unit for their timely contributions amid their 4-1 stretch over their last five games.

"Our bench gave us a huge lift... They're playing very well as a group, and that's important for us," Thibodeau said.  

During the Knicks' recent dominant stretch of basketball, their bench ranks fourth in plus-minus at +5.1, faring better than their Boston Celtics, as the reigning champions fall ninth in such a statistical category. 

Josh Hart played 40 minutes on Saturday to great results. The try-hard wing accumulated a triple-double with 20 points, 18 rebounds, and 11 assists. Although a triple-double looks good on the stat sheet and bodes well for Hart's numbers, having to play 40 minutes in a blowout seems unnecessary.

The Knicks' bench must continue their success, even in small windows, as Thibodeau doesn't appear ready to relinquish his dependence on their starting lineup.