On Wednesday night, the New York Knicks were handed another preseason loss, this time when they were scorched by the Washington Wizards.
Following the game, Knicks newcomer Donte DiVincenzo spoke with Ian Begley about what needs to change with his team’s defensive approach.
“We all know that each and every one of us have more of a competitive side to us,” DiVincenzo said.
He reiterated the point: “First and foremost, you just gotta compete hard.”
Donte DiVincenzo on what he feels is lacking from the NYK defense as they closed out the preseason: “First, you start with the competitive nature. We all know that each and every one of us have more of a competitive side to us.” pic.twitter.com/30BdDG3Llx
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) October 19, 2023
DiVincenzo doesn’t seem too worried but he made it clear that everyone has to come together, figure out what needs changing, and get on the right track before the season tips off next week.
Even with their regular starting five performing on Wednesday night (with limited minutes) the Knicks weren’t able to slow down their Eastern Conference rivals.
DiVincenzo put in 7 points of his own during his 24 minutes on the floor.
DiVincenzo has been playing a bit more than 20 minutes a night during his four preseason games with the team.
He was the latest new addition to the Knicks this summer and the front office hopes that his mix of both offensive and defensive grit will help the team as he comes off the bench.
Last season, DiVincenzo averaged 9.4 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists with the Golden State Warriors.
Fans are hoping that DiVincenzo and his fellow Knicks stars hunker down and work out the kinks before next week.
They are expecting big things from this team in 2023-24.
Preseason wins and losses aren’t as important as regular-season ones, of course, but faithful Knicks followers are a bit worried about New York’s 1-3 record.
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