Marcus Morris continues to promote New York Knicks toughness

The New York Knicks are still ranked amongst the worst in the NBA but still maintain a tough exterior amidst controversy.

The shocking moment of the NBA Free Agency period not including All-Stars changing teams had to be the move from forward Marcus Morris. Morris decided to turn down the highly acclaimed San Antonio Spurs for a contract with the New York Knicks confusing many fans in the process.

The veteran role player, along with his twin brother, are known for their rough play and no-nonsense attitude. Morris chose the Knicks for a consistent starting role and the opportunity to serve as a leader on a team. He’s shown flashes of his tough demeanor in the preseason for most notably bouncing a ball off of an opponent’s head drawing memories to the revered 1990’s Knicks.

The Knicks haven’t been too successful in starting the 2019-20 season, and Morris hasn’t let the negative press affect his approach to the game. He showed his offensive capabilities recently in another victory over the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday night. The dominant second half of the game saw Morris score 16 of his 20 points, including a clutch three-point basket to secure the Knicks lead and eventual victory.

Morris wasn’t done with his opinion on the opponents, especially former Knicks forward Kristaps Porzingis. Porzingis returned to New York after forcing a trade back in February and was quickly welcomed with an orchestra of boos from the capacity Madison Square Garden crowd. Morris spoke with reporters following the victory commenting on Porzingis’ mindset throughout the contest.

"“I get it around this league,” Knicks forward Marcus Morris said, “but it was a different level.”"

The level of anger towards Porzingis from the Knicks crowd appears to have only rejuvenated Morris and the Knicks. The team swept the season series with Dallas and looked to regain any lost momentum riding Morris’ leadership. He is averaging over 18 points pregame and is becoming a lot more comfortable in his role since the season started.

The Knicks will be relying on more veteran leadership with the young core of talent they are developing. It will be interesting to see if Morris will be apart of the team’s future or just padding stats for a more significant payday with another team.