The pair had a limited impact on the contest at the Docklands, contributing just one goal between them, but Knights backed them to bounce back sooner rather than later.
"Why shouldn't I be patient? I'm sure they deserve the patience. They've been absolute stars for the Essendon Football Club for such a long period," Knights said after Lloyd turned in his second goalless game of the season.
"They're fine young men and they continue to do themselves proud on and off the field. I'll have as much patience as I've possibly got because they deserve it, but they will come good. I know that.
Knights lamented an inability to convert a dominance in general play into goals throughout the first three quarters of the match, but was delighted with the way his young defenders came together to play a pivotal role in the club's first win of the season.
"It does help when you get your first win and it obviously breeds a lot of confidence in what we're doing as footy team," he said.
"We've had a significant week in that we were able to keep on track with what we were wanting to achieve, rather than be too disturbed by external influences.
"I spoke to the guys [in the defensive unit] earlier in the week and I said, 'It's your back line now’.
"That's what we're endeavouring to do with this footy club – to mould them and bring them through together. A few of them showed really good signs today."
The coach was particularly pleased with the efforts of Tayte Pears on Fremantle star Matthew Pavlich, and also singled out debutants Michael Quinn and David Zaharakis for praise.
The young Irishman provided some flair, but Knights admitted there were a few hair-raising moments when he had the ball in his hands.
"I don't know whether 'holding my nerve' are the right words. It was more put the seat belt on and look away," he said.
"But I enjoy his enthusiasm and he certainly brought the crowd to life at times. I think him and Zaharakis did that."
