(Photo Courtesy of AP Photo/Willie J. Allen Jr.)
The Knicks came off the All-Star break hoping to turn things around and make a late season playoff push. They came into friday’s game against the Magic 1-1 since getting back from the break. The Knicks lead was as big as 14 point but couldn’t hold off the Magic as they lost in double overtime 129-121.
The Magic who were entering their first game since the buyout of Glen Davis, would snap a three game losing streak as they managed a big comeback win over New York. They also snapped an eight game losing streak against the Knicks. Magic Rookie Victor Oladipo scored 30 points to go along with 9 rebounds and 14 assists to lead the Magic. Aaron Afflalo added 32 points and Tobias Harris had 22 points.
The Knicks struggles continued as blew another big lead as they dropped to 21-34 on the season. Carmelo Anthony would have 30 points after three quarters and finish with 44 on the night. The Knicks star would also add 11 rebounds as he lead the Knicks in both categories. Anthony has continued to give the Knicks all he’s got, all season long despite playing long minutes and having the distraction of his pending free agency this coming offseason.
Raymond Felton and Tim Hardaway Jr. had 15 points each as Tyson Chandler would add 14 points to go along with 11 rebounds. The Rookie Tim Hardaway Jr. will continue to be heavily relied on in the absence of Iman Shumpert.
The Knicks will face the Hawks on Saturday for their fourth game in five nights as they continue to try and make a push for the playoffs. Early Saturday according to reports the Knicks were considering “cutting ties” win Beno Udrih and Metta World Peace which would open up two roster spots for the rest of the season. It remains to be seen what the Knicks plans are as they were unable to make a move at the trade deadline.
PureSportsNY: Tyler Henry