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Before the season started, high expectations were placed on the New York Knicks after bolstering their lineup during the summer and adding Courtney Lee, Derrick Rose and Joakim Noah to their fold.
However, 13 games into the young season, the Knicks haven't played according to plan and currently have a 6-7 record. Much of the blame can be put on the inconsistencies the team has, especially on the defensive end which Noah was expected to anchor.
The 6-foot-11 center recently talked about the team's struggles and how he is still figuring out what his role on the team should really be.
“I’m trying to figure it out. There’s no question. It’s been really up and down. I think that’s kind of like my role on this team. Some nights it’s going to be my night, sometimes it’s not. At the end of the day I just have to be consistent with my effort and be consistent and try to bring something positive to this team.”
Noah also added that the responsibility on defense should not be solely carried by him but rather by a team effort. He also admitted that the Knicks needs to work on a lot of things first in order to be more successful.
“Good defensive teams are tied together. It’s not a question of one guy. If one guy doesn’t do his job then the defense looks bad. That’s the way it is. Everybody has to be on the same page.
“It’s an adjustment. But at the end of the day we have to not let frustration creep in. We definitely have a lot of work to do. If we focus on our progress as a team then we’re going to be all right. But if we start splintering because of taking ‘L’s and stuff like that, it’s going to be a long year. If our mindset stays on our work, we’re going to be alright.”
The Knicks definitely got more than just Noah's defensive acumen when they signed him. He brings his experience and tenacity to the table, which the team needs to finally make it to the playoffs this year. Most importantly, the 31-year-old Florida product knows what it takes to win and is not afraid to speak his mind and let his teammates know about it.
