Charles Barkley’s biggest Knicks concern after start of NBA Finals: ‘Terrible’
Charles Barkley expressed frustration over the New York Knicks' defensive performance in Game 1 of the NBA Finals. He criticized their inability to defend against open three-pointers, particularly highlighting Julian Champagnie's scoring. Despite the defensive issues, Barkley praised Karl-Anthony Towns for his effective play during the game.
- ▪Barkley noted that the Knicks allowed wide open three-pointers, leading to a poor defensive showing.
- ▪Julian Champagnie led all scorers in the first half with 15 points, all from three-point range.
- ▪The Knicks struggled with their shooting, going 6-of-20 from three compared to the Spurs' 9-of-24.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
nba finals NBA New York Knicks Charles Barkley’s biggest Knicks concern after start of NBA Finals: ‘Terrible’ By Erich Richter Published June 3, 2026, 10:13 p.m. ET See more of our coverage in your search results. Add The New York Post on Google Charles Barkley was frustrated with the Knicks’ first-half defensive performance in Game 1 of the NBA Finals — but had kudos for one bright spot on the other side of the ball. During the “Inside the NBA” halftime show on Wednesday night, the Suns great laid into the Knicks for allowing wide open 3-pointers through the first half of Game 1 where the Knicks ended down 55-48. “It’s really been terrible defense on the Knicks,” Barkley said when asked what the story of the first half was. “Cause if you actually look at [Julian Champagnie’s] threes.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at New York Post.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from New York Post
