New York Knicks Finally Snap Losing Streak, Defeat Boston Celtics
It is finally over. The New York Knicks were able to snap their lengthy losing streaks against the Boston Celtics Friday night thanks to a great team effort, and surprise appearance from Carmelo Anthony. The win snapped the Knicks 10-game losing streak, and their 11-game road losing streak; it is the first win on the road for the Knicks since their first one of the season against the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Knicks will look to keep the good vibes going Sunday when they host the Atlantic Division-leading Toronto Raptors at Madison Square Garden.
Player of the Game: Carmelo Anthony
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Anthony made a surprise start for the Knicks tonight, as all the signs pointed to him sitting out to continue resting his knee. Thankfully for the team he suited up and played well in the process. Anthony scored a team-high 22 points on 9-20 from the field. He had it going from midrange, continually knocking down jumpers from the elbow over whoever the Celtics threw at him. He also added five rebounds, three assists, one steal and three blocks to round out a strong stat line. He played 39 minutes, which should quell some of the worries people had about him not being committed to the Knicks and wanting a trade, and his knee injury in general.
-Efficient Offense
In addition to Anthony, the Knicks had three more players score 12 or more points, as Amar’e Stoudemire added 20, and Tim Hardaway Jr. and Jason Smith added 20 and 12 respectively off the bench. Jose Calderon wasn’t far off, scoring nine points as well.
It was a strong offensive showing for the Knicks tonight, as they shot 49.4 percent overall from the field. They made enough three-pointers as well to keep the Celtics at bay, knocking down 6-16 for 37.5 percent. The Knicks also assisted on 26 of their 40 makes, as every player who got in the game had at least one assist on the night.
-Injuries Mounting
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Already without Andrea Bargnani all season, the Knicks have been without J.R. Smith the last two games because of a heel injury. Anthony’s knee seems like it could be an issue all season, and Stoudemire is as big an injury risk as anyone currently in the NBA. You can add another player that will be sitting out, as Iman Shumpert was injured tonight. He popped out his shoulder and will most likely miss multiple games.
-Guards Step Up
With Shumpert missing the whole second half, the Knicks needed some people to step up, and that is what they received. Shane Larkin knocked down some big shots in the fourth quarter, and Pablo Prigioni joined Calderon on the court together to give the Knicks some great continuity on the offensive side of the ball. Hardaway Jr.’s confidence looks to be growing, as he is becoming more comfortable in his role. He will see an increased in playing time and his role with Shumpert sidelined no matter when Smith returns from his own injury.