TORONTO – The season has been a dismal one thus far, and Sunday afternoon was no different for the Knicks. New York has had a hard time finding breaks and finishing games that they should have won. Coming into Sunday afternoon, the Knicks were on a 4 game losing streak. Their last game against the Raptors was an overtime loss in the Garden. New York led for a good bit of that game, before relinquishing the lead and folding in overtime.
For this game, New York fell behind early, and fought an uphill battle the entire game. At times, the effort level was in question and the chemistry was nonexistent. The Knicks did not help their cause by committing 11 turnovers, and gave up 42 points in the paint. Toronto also out-rebounded the Knicks 43-32. What’s even more alarming is that the Knicks allowed Toronto to shoot 48% (42-86) from the field and 42% (14-33) from downtown. The defense is just horrible, there’s no way around it.
Toronto would go on to win the game 118-108. Kyle Lowry led the team with 22 points, 9 assists and 3 steals. Lou Williams and Greivis Vasquez did well coming off the bench, scoring 22 and 21 points respectively. Toronto also had 6 of their players score in double figures.
New York was led by Carmelo Anthony, who finished with 28 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists. Jason Smith was the next leading scorer adding 16 points off the bench in 21 minutes.
There’s not much to be said that isn’t already known about the (5-25) Knicks. They can’t keep opponents out of the paint, can’t defend the 3 point line, and can’t make plays down the stretch. The Knicks just look like they have packed it in, and confirmed Phil Jackson’s statements of having a losing mentality. At some point New York needs to take a deep look within, and find the pride and professionalism that has been void this season. New York’s next challenge will be the Washington Wizards at the Garden on Christmas Day Thursday.
Barry Holmes/Pure Sports NY