In Knicks head coach Thibodeau's eyes,
these two veterans had no speed and no defense.
At best, Westbrook could shoot a little more accurately. What was the point of putting them in?
Still, Thibodeau didn't let his guard down.
When the Kings had faced the Pelicans, Wang Yi's lineup choices had left everyone dumbfounded.
He'd grabbed five random players off the bench and used them to go on a 6–0 run against the Pelicans.
Rose alone had led an 8–0 run against the other team.
Under the circumstances, anyone who still dared question Wang Yi's choices had to be blind.
So head coach Thibodeau cautiously told his players:
"Their lineup's weakness is speed, so we can use our speed against them."
Over on the Kings' side, Wang Yi gave his players instructions too. "There's only one thing I want you to remember: speed. Push the pace!"
At that, the two or three assistant coaches exchanged baffled looks, and the players were just as confused.
With the lineup you've put out there, the twin towers can't run, and the two old-timers can't run either.
Dennis isn't especially slow, but speed isn't his strong suit.
The Kings' advantage lies in the height of their twin towers down low.
You're giving up that advantage and choosing to run instead. Isn't that like cutting off one of your own arms?
Seeing the others looking at him in confusion, Wang Yi offered no explanation. He just gave them a mysterious smile and said, "Just do it."
Since Wang Yi didn't want to explain, they had no choice but to follow his instructions.
When play resumed, the other team had the ball first.
The Knicks' offense was still flowing smoothly.
Jokic got the ball at the top of the arc. With the Kings choosing not to