New York Knicks vs Sacramento Kings Recap, Highlights, Final Score, More

Dec 9, 2016; Sacramento, CA, USA; New York Knicks center Joakim Noah (13) fights for the ball against Sacramento Kings forward Anthony Tolliver (43) during the second quarter at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 9, 2016; Sacramento, CA, USA; New York Knicks center Joakim Noah (13) fights for the ball against Sacramento Kings forward Anthony Tolliver (43) during the second quarter at Golden 1 Center. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports /
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The New York Knicks got their road trip off to a good start defeating the Sacramento Kings.

103. 27. Final. 100. 84

The New York Knicks picked up a hard fought victory over the Sacramento Kings. It was the second time the Knicks defeated the Kings this week, as they won at Madison Square Garden on Sunday evening as well. With the victory, the Knicks move to 13-10 on the season, while the Kings drop to 8-14.

This was a great bounce back for the Knicks as they got back on track after a disastrous game against the Cleveland Cavaliers in their last time out. The Knicks were embarrassed on their home court but were able to get the job done tonight against the Kings.

It was another game that the Knicks looked like they were ready to pull away in the third quarter, but the Kings got things together and kept the game close. It resulted in another close finish with the Knicks once again coming out on the winning side.

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A big reason for the victory was the success on finishing possessions by grabbing the rebound. The Knicks dominated the glass tonight, outrebounding the Kings 54-39. Kyle O’Quinn led the way with 11, while Kristaps Porzingis also added 10 of his own. Joakim Noah also made his presence felt with nine, as the Knicks ability to control the glass was a big reason for the win.

It helped overcome what was an average shooting night. The Knicks made only 42.9 percent of their shots, but they were able to hold the Kings to 40.2 percent. The Kings missed 52 shots, but the Knicks limited them to only six offensive rebounds.

The Knicks were also able to keep the gap close at the foul line. Foul shot differential has been a problem for the Knicks all season, but tonight they kept the deficit low. The Kings shot 23-for-27 from the foul line, while the Knicks made 21-of-25.

Three Stars

SF Carmelo Anthony, Knicks — Anthony has had to deal with Phil Jackson criticizing his playing style through the media in recent days. Tonight he put that noise behind him and came out to play. Anthony was engaged right from the start on both ends of the court and put the team on his back. Anthony scored 15 points in the first quarter and 23 in the first half en route to a 33 point effort. He also added seven rebounds, four assists, one steal, and one block.

PG Brandon Jennings, Knicks — With Derrick Rose sidelined again with back spasms, Jennings has been thrust into the starting role. He had a good game tonight as he played a game-high 39 minutes. He scored 13 points to go along with seven assists and five rebounds, successfully filling in for Rose. He has been strong off the bench and been a great asset for the Knicks this season.

C DeMarcus Cousins, Kings — Cousins is one of the most difficult players to play against in the NBA and he showed why again tonight. He is extremely talented offensively, as he poured in 28 tonight to lead the Kings. He also had 12 rebounds to go along with six assists, three steals, and one block.

Highlights

Next: New York Knicks First Quarter Player Grades

Next Game

The Knicks continue their road trip with a visit to the Los Angeles Lakers at the Staples Center on Sunday night. The Kings will head on the road to face off with the Utah Jazz.