technomaster wrote:nyvector16 wrote:In the post-game interviews, Hibbert looked like he was ready for suicide watch and West didn't look much better.
They seemed sooo down on themselves as if they learned something from game 2 that did not bode well for them going forward.
Dejected, somber, and lethargic is the best way I could describe Hibbert's composure after the game.
Hibbert can't really make any adjustments. He's not nearly as mobile like the big 3 Georgetown bigs (Ewing/Mourning/Mutombo). Basically if the Knicks can hit the mid-range shot off picks, Indiana's in big trouble because Hibbert doesn't come out to help. He doesn't cover a lot of range (like a Dwight Howard might) to get his rebounds, so if he comes out, it negates another part of his game.
I think we've seen Indiana's best already. They couldn't have played much better than the first game - so their best bet is to grind it out for the remainder of the series if they want to win.
The Knicks on the other hand have significant upside. We haven't seen anything from Smith, Chandler, Kidd, and Stoudemire yet. Nor have we gotten output out of Novak & Copeland. We've played our best basketball for just 1 quarter, and even then, a lot of the output came from our B-team (from an offensive standpoint).
I think using Chandler in more pick and roll plays will:
#1. Force slow footed Hibbert to move and react.
#2. Get Hibbert into foul trouble.
#3. Gets the ball out of Melo and JR's hand, which allows the roll players to stay active.
#4. Keep Chandler motivated. A motivated Chandler is better for our defense.
#5. Gives Pablo an offensive role, since pick and roll is his specialty.
I agree, instead of just attacking them one on one, and allowing Hibbert to do some rim protection. Put Hibbert in pick and roll plays, and attack him while he's moving or recovering vs just standing under the rim waiting for Melo and JR to beat their man.
What I saw that was also effective was doubling Hibbert late in possessions. He's not a fluent player on offense and doesn't do very well when he is rushed. He's also not used to being double teamed, since he's never been their biggest offensive threat. Make Hibbert be your decision maker on offense and score off of his TO's. It also disrupts their offensive flow.
The key with doubling Hibbert, is to rotate on the players in his field of vision. If you are going to leave somebody open, leave the guy thats in his blind side open. Hibbert doesn't have point guard IQ or vision to see the entire floor or make any quick decisions.
Neutralizing Hibbert is the key to beating Indiana. When Hibbert is on the bench, nobody should be shooting 3's, unless they are so wide open, they have time to set their feet. Otherwise, this is when you attack the rim and get to the line. This is what we did great in game 2. Attack the basket when Hibbert is off the floor. Hit mid range flooters when Hibbert is in the game. Put him in pick and rolls, to open up back door lobs!
Born in Brooklyn, Raised in Queens, Lives in Maryland.
The future is bright, I'm a Knicks fan for life!
5/12/2013 10:22 AM
