Knicks’ perimeter defense torched again in rough loss to Timberwolves

For a team that often boasts about its slew of strong perimeter defenders, the Knicks certainly do give up a ton of points outside their 3-point line. 

The Timberwolves were the latest opponent to shoot the lights out against the Knicks, connecting on 22 of 40 attempts from beyond the arc in their 116-99 win Friday night at the Garden. 

“It’s pretty difficult when they’re making shots like that. We just try to keep up, get stops, but tonight was their night,” OG Anunoby said after the Knicks lost for the sixth time in nine games. “They’re just making shots so I guess we’re not doing a good job of closing out. We gotta improve on that.” 

Despite the presence of heralded perimeter defenders such as Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, Josh Hart and reserve guard Miles McBride, the Knicks already ranked 25th in the NBA in opponents 3-point percentage at 37.3 percent entering the game. 

Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards sank eight 3-pointers in 13 attempts, while Naz Reid was a perfect 6-for-6 off the bench. 

“We just gotta be better and help each other. … Just us. Guys in the locker room, coaches. Us,” Bridges said. “We just gotta be better, that’s all I can say.”