Importance Score: 20 / 100 🔵
Knicks Secure Victory Over Bucks; Wright Shines in Expanded Role
MILWAUKEE — In what could be dubbed a redemption game of sorts, veteran guard Delon Wright delivered a strong performance for the New York Knicks against the Milwaukee Bucks. Facing a significant point guard shortage due to injuries to Jalen Brunson (ankle), Miles McBride (groin), and Cam Payne (ankle), the Knicks were notably thin at the position, leaving rookie Tyler Kolek as the sole healthy traditional point guard available for the matchup against the Bucks.
Wright Seizes Starting Opportunity
Despite Kolek’s availability, Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau elected to start Wright, a seasoned player who had primarily seen action in low-pressure situations since his acquisition from the Bucks prior to the trade deadline. This strategic decision paid dividends as Wright played a pivotal role in the Knicks’ 116-107 victory over Milwaukee on Friday night at Fiserv Forum.
Season-High Performance
Wright vindicated his coach’s confidence, achieving a season-high of 12 points in 30 minutes of play—marking his most substantial playing time with the Knicks to date.
“It definitely feels good,” Wright commented. “It seems like every team I depart from, I tend to have a solid game the first time playing against them. I just aimed to maintain that trend.”
Thibodeau Praises Wright’s Defensive Prowess
Thibodeau’s preference for Wright in the starting lineup underscored his emphasis on experience and defensive capabilities over Kolek’s playmaking abilities.
Kolek contributed five points and five assists in 17 minutes of action.
“His defense is consistently reliable,” Thibodeau stated regarding Wright. “That’s his forte, and he exhibits fearlessness and aggression. He understands how to complement his teammates. I believe he possesses a strong understanding of the game. Overall, I felt our point guard play was exceptional.”
Strategic Starting Lineup
Thibodeau further elaborated on his decision-making process: “I was contemplating between starting either player, feeling comfortable with both options. A significant factor was uncertainty regarding their starting lineup and their overall size. However, I felt confident in either choice. As the game progresses, you assess the needs of the moment. Both are highly capable players with distinct strengths, allowing for in-game adjustments.”
Rivers Lauds Former Knick Sims
Bucks head coach Doc Rivers expressed considerable praise for former Knicks center Jericho Sims.
Sims has emerged as a valuable contributor for the Bucks since being traded from the Knicks before the deadline, in a three-team deal that brought Wright to New York from Milwaukee.
Sims’ Impact on the Bucks
“He’s been outstanding for us,” Rivers remarked prior to the game. “A big, athletic player who runs the court effectively. His defense and rebounding have been impactful. He has been instrumental in securing wins for us with his presence. He’s undoubtedly a welcome addition and has surprised us with his level of play.”
Sims has averaged 15 minutes per game across 14 appearances for the Bucks, averaging 2.4 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 0.6 blocks per contest.
He fulfilled a valuable role as a backup center off the bench, particularly with Bobby Portis facing suspension, but is currently sidelined due to thumb surgery to repair a torn ligament.
However, he is anticipated to return in time for the playoffs.
Injury Update: Payne and McBride
Payne was absent from Friday’s game after sustaining a sprained ankle during the Knicks’ 126-113 defeat against the Clippers on Wednesday.
McBride remained sidelined for his fourth consecutive game due to a groin contusion.