NEW YORK CITY – This has been a very tough season for the Knicks thus far to say the least. Nearing the first quarter of the 2014-15 season’s completion, New York has a host of problems that has led to their pathetic 4-15 record, which is far below their expectations prior to the season’s start.
The Knicks have had inconsistent production from their bench, which has lead to Carmelo Anthony feeling the pressure to score and score big. This has been proven to not be the formula to success, as Anthony usually runs out of steam towards the end of the game. Another problem has been the Knicks inability to keep opponents out of the paint. Too often teams can penetrate freely into the lane. The host of other problems stem from this main problem. Teams have generated the open three point opportunities from kick outs from inside penetration. Then if teams are not killing the Knicks from behind the arc, they are getting to the free throw line from penetration. Spotting teams points from the charity stripe, and free opportunities from behind the arc will get you beat night in and night out.
Sunday night the Knicks played hard against the Miami Heat, but playing from behind took its toll on the Knicks as they lost 79-86. This was Anthony’s first game back from back spasms, and he looked like he didn’t miss a beat. Anthony had 31 points, 8 rebounds and added 2 assists. Amar’e Stoudemire also had another double double performance (19 points,12 rebounds). His production this season has been very impressive, as he has averaged 12.8 points per game and 7.9 rebounds per game off the bench. Derek Fisher has done a good job managing his minutes to keep him fresh and effective.
The Knicks defense did show up Sunday night as they limited the Miami Heat to just 86 points on 41% shooting. They also limited the Heat to just 7 three pointers made, when normally they give up double digits in that category. Even in Lebron James’ departure, the Big 2 were still rolling against the Knicks. Dwyane Wade returned after missing 7 games previously, and torched the Knicks for 27 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Chris Bosh looked good as well, adding 20 points and 9 rebounds. Bosh hit a key 3 pointer with 1:07 left, to seal the win for Miami.
The Knicks next task would be to face their other rival, the Brooklyn Nets, Tuesday night. Brooklyn was coming off a tough 102-84 loss to the Bulls on the road. The Knicks and Nets would play a classic rivalry game, as the game was close throughout the whole contest. The Knicks were playing from behind as usual for most of the game. Four of the five Nets starters scored in double figures. The key statistic to lead to the Knicks demise, was the amount of points in the paint they gave up (48). The Nets were getting anything they wanted inside, and it lead to their 98-93 win. The Knicks were down three late and had the chance to tie, but Anthony missed a pull up three which sealed their fate. That shot selection was a bit questionable, as Anthony didn’t try and work the ball around. He brought the ball down and chucked a contested three. Jose Calderon could have been a viable option to take the last shot, as he was 5-6 from behind the arc on the night.
Anthony finished with 20 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists. Stoudemire just missed a double double (17 points,9 rebounds) and Calderon added a great game (19 points,7 assists). Calderon has played well since returning to the Knicks, and the Knicks have looked better even though their record doesn’t show it. They play with more cohesion, and seem to rally around the veteran leadership that Calderon brings.
The Knicks’ next opponent will be the Cleveland Cavaliers at home Thursday night. Cleveland will be looking for redemption, as the Knicks spoiled Lebron James’ first home game back in Cleveland as a Cavalier. The Knicks have dropped their last 5 games, and are 3-7 at home this year.
Barry Holmes/Pure Sports NY