When you hear old-timers talk about the death of the mid-range game in the NBA, know that’s not all bad. Don’t get me wrong, there is still value in a guy who can knock down a high percentage of midrange shots, but the fact is team’s that get their shots at the rim and from three are likely to be more efficient. Get your buckets right at the rim or get the extra point for that long jumper if you can.
The Knicks can — with their seven threes against Bulls Thursday the Knicks set a record for most threes made in a season.
Of those, 209 are corner threes on which they shot 38 percent, the other 636 came above the break and the Knicks shot 38 percent on those as well. (Yes, on the season the Knicks are shooting 37.6 percent on threes, but that includes 28 backcourt heaves that drags the percentage down). It’s interesting to note the Knicks do not shoot a higher percentage on the corner threes, most teams do. Also, 97 percent of the Knicks corner threes are assisted, 79 percent of their ones above the break — they tend to work inside out, or kick out in transition for these shots to get good looks.
By the way, the Knicks lead the league in three-point attempts, makes and are fifth in percentage.
It works. The Knicks have a top three offense. If their defense shows up they are a dangerous playoff team.