New York Knicks 6 Takeaways From The Preseason

Melo Makes It Through Unscatched

Oct 17, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) watches game action during the second half against the Charlotte Hornets at Time Warner Cable Arena. The Hornets defeated the Knicks 97-93. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports

While Afflalo’s injury is now the biggest injury news for the Knicks, that was not the case just two weeks ago. At that time, the Knicks were worried about the knee Carmelo Anthony had surgically repaired in February. Well, they do not need to worry anymore, at least about his availability, as Anthony made it through the preseason unscratched.

Not only was he unscathced, he actually looked good. In the first three appearances he made, Anthony had his jump shot going. He lit up Bauru of the Brazilian league, the Washington Wizards and Philadelphia 76ers, averaging 18.6 points on 66.7 percent shooting in only 22.3 minutes per game.

His shot was not as effective against the Celtics in two very physical games for the preseason, but his stats weren’t the big issue heading into the preseason; it was making it through healthy without any setbacks.

That is exactly what happened, as Anthony looked healthy at the conclusion of the preseason. He got a rest on the second night of the back-to-back over last weekend, something we could see more of during the regular season. If it will help keep Anthony healthy and available for say 70-72 strong games, that is a trade off worth taking.

While some people will be concerned about his shooting percentages in the games against the Celtics, it is nothing to worry about. The Celtics came out very physical while Anthony was clearly still in preseason mode at times. Expect him to get it going once the games matter again, as his health was the biggest concern and he proved that to be strong.

Next: Improvements Coming Defensively