On a day where Carmelo Anthony was named Eastern Conference Player of the Week, his Knicks would be looking to secure their 4th consecutive victory as they played host to the 76ers. Philadelphia was on a streak of their own, a dubious one having lost 16 straight games.
As is often the case with this Knicks team the start couldn’t have been what Mike Woodson envisioned in the pre-game with the Sixers going up by as many as 12 points behind a balanced attack and diligent effort on the offense glass. In part due to starting C, Tyson Chandler out for personal reasons. However, by the end of the 1st, New York had found a way to get back on track on the strength of Amar’e Stoudemire who since being inserted into the starting lineup has elevated the level of his play, both offensively and defensively.
New York took the lead on the heels of a 19-5, 2nd quarter run but with the team struggling on the defensive end they weren’t able to shake off the rebuilding Philadelphia team. Top rookie, Michael Carter-Williams was on his way to recording his second career triple double, as he would finish with 23 points, 13 rebounds and 10 assists.
Anthony had a rough night shooting the ball (8-24) but he received plenty of help from his teammates as New York had 4 players go over the 20 point plateau. It was the first time in 2 years that New York accomplished that feat. The Knicks sealed the game early in the 4th, going on a 19-4 run this time to open up 21 point margin.
Mike Woodson was able to provide many of his regulars with some extra rest while the reserves finished up in extended mop up time.
Final
Knicks 123 Sixers 110
Wilson Caicedo: PureSportsNY