Knicks: Thibodeau’s immediate effect especially in defense

From the moment the Knicks hired Tom Thibodeau as their new manager in July, their defense thought it would be an upgrade.

The Knicks left New York on December 27 fresh from their first win of the season, a surprising defeat by the Bucks. They returned on Tuesday as winners of four of the last five entrants in Wednesday night’s showdown against Jazz at the Garden, with many strong efforts fueling their rise but defense chief among them.

“I think being together is an important part of that. I think the willingness to share the ball, to play hard for each other, “Thibodeau said after Monday’s 113-108 win over the Hawks.” [But] it starts with our defense and rebounding. still lower our turnovers, but I just think about the way they are playing for each other. I think that’s a big part of winning. They come in and work everyday”.