New York Knicks vs. Cleveland Cavaliers: Carmelo Anthony vs. Lebron James Is Matchup To Watch

Nov 4, 2015; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Tristan Thompson (left) and New York Knicks center Robin Lopez (8) battle for position for a rebound in the fourth quarter at Quicken Loans Arena. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports

Cut Down On The Fouls

A big problem for the Knicks this season has been the differential at the foul line. They are one of the best teams at converting free throws, ranking third at 80.7 percent, they just do not get there very often. Their opponents have attempted 76 more free throws than them this season, which is the 25th worst ratio in the NBA.

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The Cavaliers had a big part in that, as they attempted 63 free throws in the previous two meetings this season compared to only 36 for the Knicks. With games that were decided by 10 and six points, you don’t have to look any further than the free throw differential for a reason the Knicks lost.

It is always defending a LeBron James led team, as they seem to get the benefit of the doubt more often than not. Regardless, the Knicks have to cut down on the fouls against the Cavaliers this time around. 23 and 26 fouls are way too many to overcome when you do not draw fouls with any consistency yourself.

If the Knicks can keep the free throw differential in the single digits, somewhere around five being the biggest differential, it would go a long a way in getting the victory.

Next: Better Fourth Quarter Execution