NEW ORLEANS- The Pelicans dealt the Knicks their 9th straight loss Tuesday night. This loss seemed to be a bit more significant as the team seemed to fall apart not only during the 4th quarter to lose the game, but in the locker room as well. There have been reports that there is a rift between Carmelo Anthony and Tim Hardaway Jr. Each unhappy with each other’s efforts on defense, and the amount of shots the other takes. This is in a larger picture may be from the team’s overall dislike of the triangle offense. The triangle has been creating quality shots, but the Knick shooters just haven’t been making enough of them on a consistent basis or in key moments. The triangle offense results wise, has put the Knicks at 26th overall in the league in scoring. This is the franchise’s worst start at 4-19, and a turnaround doesn’t seem in the near future.
As far as Tuesday night’s performance, the Knicks seemed uninspired on defense. Opponent’s often times were getting wide open layups, and there was no help side defense on the back end all night. Defender’s could not keep their man in front of them, and that in turn lead to the Pelicans scoring 54 points in the paint. The Pelicans also got 26 free throw opportunities and converted on 20 of them. The defense has been the problem all year, and has gotten them beat. They have not been able to get key stops in certain games, or throughout the course of a game on other occasions. This time it was Anthony Davis’ turn to hurt the Knicks. He finished with 18 points, 8 rebounds and 3 blocks. It was at times when the Knicks would try and make a run, he would score key baskets to stop the momentum several times Tuesday night. Tyreke Evans was the leading scorer, adding 27 points, 6 assists, and 4 rebounds. He got to the paint whenever he wanted against Knick defenders.
Amar’e Stoudemire had a standout game, and has been playing a very high level for the Knicks this season. He had a team high 26 points, 5 rebounds and 5 blocks. JR Smith and Carmelo Anthony both added 17 points behind Stoudemire.
Changes may be on the horizon as speculation has been around Smith being on the trading block as well as Hardaway Jr.’s name as well. The team’s chemistry is in turmoil and front office moves may be the Knicks only chance of saving this season and seasons to come. Unfortunately, New York has to play the 2nd of their back to back in San Antonio to play the defending NBA Champion Spurs.
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