New York Knicks Struggle with Injuries and Depth

The New York Knicks are struggling with a 6-6 record, primarily due to their poor defensive performance, ranking 21st in the NBA with a defensive rating of 116.3. Injuries to key players like Mitchell Robinson and Precious Achiuwa have exacerbated their interior defense issues, leading to discussions about potential roster adjustments ahead of the 2024 trade deadline. While Karl-Anthony Towns has bolstered their offense, the reliance on starters and a lack of bench scoring, with the lowest-scoring bench in the league, has limited their success. Rookie center Ariel Hukporti has emerged as a strong candidate for more playing time, showcasing versatility and defensive prowess in recent games. Additionally, the Knicks' heavy reliance on their starters has raised concerns about stamina and performance in clutch situations, where they currently rank last in the league. Overall, without strategic changes, including potential trades, the Knicks may continue to struggle in a competitive Eastern Conference.