Atlanta Hawks Down! New York Knicks Win 10th Straight!

(*T*M*C) Waking up in New York City. Dreaming about how it all began. Bright lights, big city. New Amsterdam and the Native Americans…. This is starting to turn into a musical tour and there’s a great show coming to a city near you. Knicks fans took over Philips Arena as New York grounds Atlanta 95-82 and the beat goes on.

Carmelo Anthony provided an encore performance for the Knicks scoring 40 points(17-27 FGs, 1-2 3-PTs, 5-6 FTs), 5 rebounds and 3 assists. JR Smith was strong of the bench with 19 points(8-15 FGs, 1-4 3-PTs, 2-4 FTs). Raymond Felton dropped 14 points(7-16 FGs, 0-3 3-PTs), 5 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals. Kyle Korver tried to carry the Hawks recording 25 points(9-14 FGs, 6-10 3-PTs, 1-1 FTs) and 6 rebounds. Jeff Teague collected 15 points(5-10 FGs, 0-3 3-PTs, 5-6 FTs), 9 assists, 4 rebounds, and 2 steals. Josh Smith had 10 points(5-13 FGs, 0-3 3-PTs, 0-7 FTs), 8 rebounds and 5 assists.

Atlanta sprinted to a 10-2 lead in the 1st Quarter shooting 4-5 FGs(2-3 3-PTs). New York started the game 1-8 FGs(0-3 3-PTs). The Knicks finished the quarter on a 21-8 blast which translated into 9-14 FGs(1-1 3-PTs). The Hawks faded miserably going 2-13 FGs which included Josh Smith missing 4 straight FTs. Doesn’t “Smooth”, “J Smooth”, not so smooth want a max deal? Don’t make me laugh. Carmelo Anthony led New York with 13 points(5-8 FGs, 1-1 3-PTs, 2-2 FTs) and a 23-18 1st Quarter advantage. Atlanta’s Jeff Teague had 5 points(1-4 FGs, 0-1 3-PTs, 3-4 FTs) and 3 turnovers.

The 2nd Quarter featured Kyle Korver 12 points(5-7 FGs, 2-3 3-PTs, 0-0 FTs) versus Carmelo Anthony 11 points(4-5 FGs, 3-4 FTs). Steve Novak was strong off New York’s bench scoring 6 points(2-2 FGs, 2-2 3-PTs) ans 2 rebounds. So at the 2:25 mark, the game is locked at 38 apiece. The Knicks manufacture a 9-2 burst and take the 47-40 Halftime lead. The numbers don’t lie. FG%: NY-47.5% ATL-42.9%. FT% NY-75% ATL-38.5%.

We had an immediate rematch in the 3rd Quarter. Kyle Korver 10 points(3-4 FGs, 3-4 3-PTs, 1-1 FTs) and 3 rebounds versus Carmelo Anthony 12 points(6-9 FGs, 0-1 3-PTs) and 3 rebounds. Pablo Prigioni contributed 6 points(2-3 FGs, 2-3 3-PTs). Atlanta did a nice job of finishing the 3rd Quarter with the game tied at 68. The Hawks caused the Knicks to commit 5 crucial turnovers.

The 4th Quarter began with the possibility of Carmelo Anthony scoring 50 points in consecutive games, matching Bernard King. Anthony’s stat line coming in, 36 points(15-22 FGs, 1-2 3-PTs, 5-6 FTs). The big story in the 4th Quarter was the New York Knicks Defense. Atlanta committed 5 turnovers within the first 4 minutes. New York used that defensive intensity and transformed it into a 12-4 run along with a 82-74 lead at the 6:50 mark. Over the next 4+ minutes, the Knicks went on a 9-3 push and I saw quit in the Atlanta Hawks down 91-77 with 2:43 remaining. New York finished Atlanta thanks to the balance of Raymond Felton(10 points – 5-7 FGs, 0-1 3-PTs) and JR Smith(10 points – 4-5 FGs, 1-2 3-PTs, 1-2 FTs). Carmelo Anthony’s 40 pts put him in rare, Knickerbocker air.

Word out on the street, the New York Knicks haven’t enjoyed this type of success since 1994. 10 WINS IN A ROW!! The Knicks return to the “World’s Most Famous Arena”, Madison Square Garden to take on another Playoff-bound team, the Milwaukee Bucks.(*T*M*C)

Written by Shelby Spencer

The Big Aristotle: Shaquille O’Neal #34 Lakers Jersey Retirement Ceremony

(*T*M*C)I CAN DIG IT! I CAN DIG IT! I’d like to congratulate Shaquille O’Neal for a tremendous career on and off the court. Truly one of the all-time greats at the Center position. I do wish all the championships Mr O’Neal have won came down to his free throw shooting. It would have been absolutely hilarious watching Laker fans jump into the Pacific. KAZAAM! I never watched that film. Was there ever a sequel? Honorable mention to Phil Jackson who’s the baddest coach on the planet. Are you as impressed as I am on how Mr Jackson has positioned himself to be the next Emperor? He’s been beating up the pockets of the Buss family in many ways for quite sometime. Thanking Jack Nicholson for giving the code red on NBA officials is brilliant. Acknowledging Mr Cliff Notes for being a tremendous study partner, priceless. His favorite “shalomian” brother, Jimmy “Tight Pants” Goldstein, pure comedy. Now I must express my favorite part of the ceremony. My absolute favorite part of this retirement ceremony is Mr O’Neal not thanking Shaunie for a damn thing!!! HA! HA! I HAVE DUG IT! I HAVE DUG IT!(*T*M*C)

The Healing Power Of Laughter

The Knicks Can Stand The Heat

(*T*M*C)Start spreading the news. I’m leaving today. I want to be a part of it! New York, New York. These vagabond shoes, are longing to stray. Right through the very heart of it! New York, New York. I want to wake up, in a city that never sleeps! And find I’m King of the Hill, Top of the Heap…..Now in order for the New York Knicks to accomplish this feat, the Miami Heat will have to be dethroned. In a titanic match-up which could be a preview of how the East is won, New York burned Miami 102-90. The Knicks have taken the season series 3-1 and swept the games played at American Airlines Arena.

Carmelo Anthony treated all Knicks fans, far and wide, to a virtuoso performance scoring 50 points(18-26 FGs, 7-10 3-PTs, 7-8 FTs). A masterpiece that tied a career-high. JR Smith came off the bench with 14 points(5-15 FGs, 2-3 3-PTs, 2-4 FTs) and 6 rebounds. Raymond Felton added 10 points(4-9 FGs, 0-3 3-PTs, 2-2 FTs) and 9 assists. The Heat was guided by Chris Bosh with 23 points(6-13 FGs, 1-3 3-PTs, 10-10 FTs), 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Mike Miller recorded 18 points(7-12 FGs, 4-8 3-PTs), 8 rebounds, 4 assists and 2 blocks. Ray Allen tallied 16 points(5-7 FGs, 1-1 3-PTs, 5-5 FTs). Norris Cole collected 14 points(6-12 FGs, 1-2 3-PTs, 1-2 FTs).

The Knicks came out smoking in the 1st Quarter with a 13-4 burst. The Heat missed their first 5 shots. Carmelo Anthony scored 10 points(4-4 FGs, 2-2 3-PTs) in that stretch. The Heat responded with a 9-0 run. Chris Bosh and Norris Cole had 4 points each during that span. The rest of the quarter had the intensity of an Eastern Conference Final(eye wink). New York finished the quarter with a 27-25 lead. Carmelo Anthony was absolutely ridiculous with 17 points(7-8 FGs, 3-4 3-PTs). The Knicks were 11-19 FGs(57.9%) but didn’t take a single free throw. Head Coach Mike Woodson provided some insight. “We started well. It’s always our goal to hold our opponents to 25 points or less in a quarter. We’re on track with that. Bad switching got us into trouble late.” The Heat’s balanced attack featured Mike Miller and Chris Anderson with 5 points each. Miami shot 8-20 FGs(40%) but outscored New York 16-4 in the paint? C’mon, son! Another factor, the Heat was 6-7 from the free throw line.

Miami set the tone for the 2nd Quarter with a 14-7 sprint within the 5 minutes, MIA 39-NY 34. Over the next 1:44, Carmelo Anthony engineered a 6-0 lift, NY 40-MIA 39. Mike Miller outdueled Carmelo Anthony 8-2 as we reached the 3:00 mark, MIA 47-NY 42. The Heat wrestled a 58-50 Halftime lead away from the Knicks with an 11-8 push. Mike Miller was electric for Miami scoring 13 points(5-5 FGs, 3-3 3-PTs). Norris Cole registered 8 points(3-3 FGs, 1-1 3-PT, 1-2 FT). Ray Allen provided 7 points(3-3 FGs, 1-1 3-PTs). Carmelo kept New York in the game dropping 10 points(2-4 FGs, 1-2 3-PTs, 5-5 FTs). The Heat shot 13-18 FGs(72.2%) and 6-10 FTs(60%) while the Knicks were 6-14 FGs(42.9%) and 8-10 FTs(80%) in the 2nd Quarter. New York would weather the storm.

New York controlled the 3rd Quarter with a 20-9 surge that took us to the 4:36 mark, NY 70-MIA 67. The Knicks’ Defense started to take over the game shutting out Mike Miller 0-4 FGs(0-3 FTs). The Heat committed 6 turnovers and was held to 18 points. As New York took a 78-76 lead in the 4th Quarter, Carmelo Anthony continued to shoot the lights out with 15 points(6-9 FGs, 2-4 FTs, 1-1). Chris Bosh kept Miami afloat producing 9 points(2-2 FGs, 5-5 FTs). Head Coach Erik Spoelstra seemed optimistic, “New York stepped up the defense, as we expected. We’re in our building and it’s going to be a grind. We’ll try to get the ball out of Anthony’s hands when it’s timely. The Knicks have good spacing so it’ll be tough.”

The Knicks’ defense was the story as the Heat was put to bed. Miami didn’t score a FG in the last 7:30 of the game! The Heat was held to 14 points. Carmelo Anthony closed the game with 8 points. Felton Spencer pulled in 6 points. Kenyon Martin chipped in with 4 points. Chris Bosh tried to carry Miami with 8 points. Ray Allen hauled in the other 6 points. As the fans started to clear out hopefully the bad taste lingers for quite some time.

New York has NOW won 9 straight games! Tyson Chandler made his return to the starting lineup. Lebron James, Dwyane Wade & Mario Chalmers were all resting due to injury. Brooklyn is 5 games behind and Boston is 9.5 games behind in the Atlantic Division. How far can the Knicks go? It’s up to you New York, New York….New York!(*T*M*C)

Written by Shelby Spencer

New York Enjoys Their Own Boston Tea Party

(*T*M*C) Winners of 17 NBA Championships! The last one resulting in the culmination of the 2007-2008 season. Winners of 21 Conference Titles! The last one ended with a bitter, Game 7 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers which destroyed the 2009-2010 season and enabled Former Knick Legend(eye wink), Phil Jackson to repeat once again. Winners of the last 5 Atlantic Division Crowns! The New York Knicks have revolted, boarded the ships of the Boston Celtics and threw them into the New York Harbor with a 108-89 beating at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks win the season series 3-1 and avenged that irritating, January 7th defeat at the “World’s Most Famous Arena”.

New York’s Carmelo Anthony, who reportedly “stalked” Kevin Garnett after January’s debacle near the Celtics Locker Room, keep his composure and played well with 24 points(9-19 FGs, 2-4 3-PTs, 4-4 FTs), 10 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals. Chris Copeland was tremendous off the bench scoring 22 points(6-10 FGs, 3-3 3-PTs, 7-9 FTs) and 5 rebounds. Raymond Felton was too strong for the Boston guards adding 18 points(6-10 FGs, 3-6 3-PTs, 3-3 FTs) and 4 assists. JR Smith shot poorly from the field but impacted the game notching 15 points(4-12 FGs, 0-1 3-PTs, 7-10 FTs), 12 rebounds, 4 assists and 2 steals. Boston’s Jeff Green lead all scores with 27 points(10-14 FGs, 2-5 3-PTs, 5-8 FTs) and 4 rebounds. Paul Pierce battled through bad shooting with 24 points(6-16 FGs, 4-7 3-PTs, 8-10 FTs).

The 1st Quarter exuded an atomosphere similar to a 1st-round match-up in the Playoffs(eye wink). At the 8:30 mark and Boston leading 9-8, New York goes on a 8-0 sprint, NY 16-Bos 9. In just under 5 minutes, the Celtics answered with an 12-1 run of their own. Bos 21-NY 17. The Knicks seized a 28-23 advantage to end the quarter on the power of an 11-2 burst. New York was 5-7 3-PTs(71.4%), a sign of things to come. Carmelo Anthony set the tone scoring 12 points(5-10 FGs, 2-3 3-PTs). Raymond Felton tallied 7 points(3-4 FGs, 1-2 3-PTs). Boston was 2-6 3-PTs(33.3%), a dark moon rising. Jeff Green lead the way with 10 points(4-5 FGs, 1-2 3-PTs, 1-4 FTs). Paul Pierce was spotty adding 5 points(1-4 FGs, 1-2 3-PTs, 2-2 FTs).

In the 2nd Quarter, New York started to pound Boston into ground. After the Celtics scored 4 straight points to close within 1 at 28-27, the Knicks went on a 22-8 shooting spree, NY 50-Bos 35 with 5:09 remaining. That’s all Head Coach Glen “Doc” Rivers could take as he received a technical foul. New York finished the quarter 15-10 and developed a huge 65-48 Halftime lead. The Celtics were 10-18 FGs(55.6%), 2-3 3-PTs(66.6%), and 3-4 FTs(75%) but the Knicks were 11-21 FGs(52.4%), 6-8 3-PTs(75%) and 11-13 FTs(84.6%). You can see how Coach Rivers would blow a gasket if he felt the officiating had a role in this standing 8-count. So glad your stay at the Garden was miserable. Please come again. New York, how about this for a total team effort? Chris Copeland, 9 points. JR Smith, 8 points. Carmelo Anthony, 6 points. Steve Novak, 6 points. Jason Kidd, 3 points. Boston’s contributors tried to keep the Celtics close. Paul Pierce, 10 points. Jeff Green, 6 points. Jason Terry, 5 points. How do you know when it’s going to be your night? Raymond Felton hits a 49-footer to end the quarter and poses for the camera.

The 3rd Quarter was a 21-21 draw. Boston was 6-17 FGs(35.3%), 3-10 3-PTs(30%) and 8-9 FTs(88.9%). New York was 6-16 FGs(37.5%), 2-7 3-PTs(28.6%) and 5-8 FTs(62.5%). The Celtics had 2 soilders carry the load. Jeff Green provided 9 points(2-4 FGs, 1-3 3-PTs, 4-4 FTs). Paul Pierce registered 9 points(2-7 FGs, 2-4 3-PTs, 3-4 FTs). The Knicks held it together. Raymond Felton manufactured 6 points(2-5 FGs, 1-3 3-PTs, 1-1 FTs). Iman Shumpert chipped in with 5 points(2-2 FGs, 1-1 3-PTs). Boston enjoyed a 9-3 surge early, NY 70-Bos 57. The Celtics engineered a 7-2 spark towards the middle, NY 75-Bos 64. New York fininshed the quarter with an 8-4 push, restoring the 17-point lead at 86-69.

The Knicks started the 4th Quarter 11-6 and that handled the first 6 minutes, NY 97-Bos 75. The Celtics countered with a 10-4 march but would get no closer, NY 101-Bos 85. Boston’s Jordan Crawford had 8 points. Courtney Lee, 4 points. New York’s Chris Copeland scored an impressive 12 points. Carmelo Anthony & Steve Novak each had 4 points. The New York Knicks have now won 8 straight games and are rolling like a river.

Head Coach Mike Woodson took it all in stride. “We’ve been mixing and matching based on our injuries. Just matching up with our opponents. At times we had to prolong the game because of the condition of our bigs. Every game we play now is important in maintaining our position on the Atlantic Division and the Eastern Conference. The best thing about all this, we’re committed. Finally getting back to playing the way we did at the beginning of the season.”

Written By Shelby Spencer

Knicks Skin Bobcats

(*T*M*C) Home, Sweet Home. It doesn’t get much better than the “World’s Most Famous Arena” on a Good Friday. The New York Knicks come in 25-10 at Madison Square Garden and have a 6-game winning streak. The Charlotte Bobcats land in NYC 6-29 on the road. Overall, the Bobcats are 17-54 and the worst team in the NBA. You talk about leading sheep to the slaughter. I give Michael Jordan all the credit in the world for making this expansion team, the train wreck that it is. Hard to believe 3 years ago Charlotte had it’s only winning season and playoff appearance thanks to players such as Tyson Chandler and Raymond Felton. With that said, the New York Knicks outlasted the Charlotte Bobcats 111-102.

JR Smith continues to be nothing short of phenomenal scoring 37 points(12-18 FGs, 2-2 3-PTs, 11-12). He was pivotal in the Knicks surviving that garbage Carmelo Anthony brought to the court last night. Most may look at the 32 points(9-10 FTs) and 11 rebounds as impressive but he shot 11-28 from the field which is 39.2%! Check your ego at the door, Melo! $20 million/year doesn’t mean carte blanche over the game! Raymond Felton tallied 18 points(7-11 FGs, 2-4 3-PTs, 2-2 FTs), 3 rebounds, 3 steals and 2 assists. For the Charlotte Bobcats, Gerald Henderson’s monster game went to waste as he dropped 35 points(9-16 FGs, 2-5 3-PTs, 15-17 FTs), 7 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 steals. Kemba Walker, 16 points(6-19 FGs, 1-5 3-PTs, 3-4 FTs), 8 assists, 3 rebounds and 2 steals. Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, 14 points(6-11 FGs, 2-2 FTs) and 8 rebounds. Ben Gordon, 12 points(4-9 FGs, 4-8 3-PTs).

6 minutes into the 1st Quarter and the Bobcats were who we thought they were trailing 21-8. The Knicks were 4-5 from downtown. Charlotte was 3-8 FGs, 3 turnovers and played atrocious defense. As the quarter came to a close, New York continued to dominate as they led 38-20. Anthony scored 13 points at the expense of Josh McRoberts. JR Smith flew off the bench with 9 points. Iman Shumpert enjoyed another hot 1st Quarter with 8 points. Raymond Felton was strong with 7 points. The Knicks shot 58% from the field.

2 minutes into the into the 2nd Quarter, Charlotte was 0-4 FGs with a turnover. After the first 6 minutes it was New York 17-Gerald Henderson 6. The Knicks had their biggest lead of 30 points, 58-28, at the 5:24 mark. From there the Bobcats snatched the momentum, went on a 19-11 spurt and cut the deficit to 69-37 at Halftime. JR Smith was magnificent with 15 points for New York. Gerald Henderson and Kemba Walker each had 9 points for Charlotte.

In the 3rd Quarter, the Knicks took a nap shooting 2-9 FGs and 3-4 FTs in the first 6 minutes, NY 76-CHA 58. The rest of the quarter looked as if both teams were content with mediocrity, NY 88-CHA 69. New York’s Carmelo Anthony leds all scores with 9 points. JR Smith produced 7 more points. Gerald Henderson kept on pushing with 7 points.

The Bobcats finally got off the plane to play in the 4th Quarter. Charlotte produced a quick 5 points at the 10:55 mark, NY 88-CHA 74. New York pushed back with a 6-0 run, NY 94-CHA 74. Bobcats had a 9-4 surge with 6 minutes remaining, NY 98-CHA 83. Charlotte crept a little closer with an 7-4 boost over the next 3 minutes, NY 102-CHA 90. New York continued to play with fire as the Bobcats carried a 5-0 run to the 1:15 mark, NY 102-CHA 95. The Knicks finally shut the door with a 7-2 spurt with 22 seconds, NY 109-CHA 97. JR Smith finished another brilliant performance with 7 points. Anthony & Felton each had 6 points. Charlotte’s Gerald Henderson soared with 14 points. Pargo, McRoberts and Gordon each dropped 6 points. New York has now won 7 straight games, a season high.

Head Coach Mike Woodson reflected with pride. “You’d like to win big when you’re up big. To me, a win is a win. We’re not closing out games as we should. It may be fatigue. I’ve guys playing a ton of minutes. We’re back to making shots like we did at the beginning of the season. Our spacing is nice but our defense is carrying us.” With the Brooklyn Nets getting blown out by the Denver Nuggets last night, the New York Knicks have increased their lead in the Atlantic Division to 3.5 games. The Boston Celtics, who are 7.5 games back, come in to Madison Square Garden on Sunday 3/31 and let’s hope they leave with a beating.(*T*M*C)

Written by Shelby Spencer

New York Claws Past Memphis

(*T*M*C) Back in November the Knicks visited the Grizzlies with a 6-0 record. There was a buzz in NYC that this year would be like none other. So while New York was walking in Memphis, Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol helped to run the Knicks out-of-town 105-95. The rematch was tonight at the “World’s Most Famous Arena”, Madison Square Garden. New York comes in winners of 5 straight which included 3 important divisonal victories. Memphis arrives 47-23 on the season and are currently the 5th seed in the Western Conference. Head Coach Mike Woodson shared some insight. “The adjustments we’ve made on defense have been big. Pablo (Prigioni) likes to extend out wide on the ball which is what we need. Kenyon Martin is a defensive-minded individual on the blocks. Therefore, the tone has been set by the way we play defensively.” The Knicks exemplified that mindset and much more as they held off the Grizzlies 108-101.

New York was sparked by the brilliance of JR Smith who stole the show with 35 points(10-18 FGs, 3-7 3-PTs, 12-13 FTs), 7 rebounds and 2 assists. Carmelo Anthony, who thankfully shot better than last night, had 22 points(8-20 FGs, 0-2 3-PTs, 6-6 FTs), 7 rebounds and 3 assists. Iman Shumpert scored 16 points(6-10 FGs, 4-6 3-PTs), 3 rebounds and 3 steals. Raymond Felton tallied 13 points(5-6 FGs, 2-3 3-PTs, 1-2 FTs), 4 assists and 3 rebounds. Steve Novak continues to be solid off the bench collecting 9 points(3-8 FGs, 3-8 3-PTs). Memphis was powered by Mike Conley’s 26 points(6-16 FGs, 2-8 3-PTs, 12-14 FTs), 6 assists and 4 rebounds. Jerryd Bayless was strong off the bench with 24 points(8-17 FGs, 4-7 3-PTs, 4-4 FTs). Tony Allen scored 18 points(7-10 FGs, 4-5 FTs), 10 rebounds and 2 steals. Marc Gasol showed a ton of heart playing through an abdominal tear added 13 points(4-7 FGs, 5-7 FTs), 5 rebounds and 3 assists. Quincy Pondexter, another bench contributor, had 10 points(4-7 FGs, 0-2 3-PTs, 2-2 FTs) and 5 rebounds.

The Iman Shumpert Show dominated the 1st Quarter. Knee injury? What knee injury? Shumpert was on fire scoring 13 of New York’s first 15 points. The Stat Line: 5-5 FGs and 3-3 from downtown. Carmelo Anthony flowed with the rhythm, 11 points(4-6 FGs, 3-3 FTs). JR Smith launched from the bench with 11 points(3-5 FGs, 1-2 3-PTs, 4-4 FTs), 4 rebounds and 2 assists. A 19-6 run gave the Knicks an early 19-9 lead with 5 minutes remaining. Tony Allen engineered the resistance with 10 points(5-6 FGs) and 5 rebounds. Mike Conley scored 8 points(3-6 FGs, 2-2 FTs) and 3 assists. New York shot 72.2% for the quarter and snatched a 37-25 lead.

Madison Square Garden exploded in the 2nd Quarter. New York mauled Memphis 32-16. The Knicks were letting it fly leading by 30 at one point. JR Smith was rolling with 12 points(5-9 FGs, 2-4 3-PTs). Steve Novak scored 9 points(3-7 3-PTs). Memphis was 5-11 from the field but committed 8 turnovers. The Knicks took a commanding 69-41 advantage at the break and another standing 8-count. This game is wrapped up at Halftime since the Grizzlies are showing little fight, right?

Wrong! Memphis charged in the 3rd Quarter with a 19-4 run and cut the deficit to 73-58 with 6:30 remanining. Mike Conley fought throw adversity with 9 points(2-6 FGs, 1-3 3-PTs, 4-4 FTs). Marc Gasol battled through pain adding 6 points(1-2 FGs, 4-5 FTs). The Grizzlies were getting to the line and the calls seemed to break the focus of the Knicks. Marcus Camby argued a foul, received 2 technicals and was ejected from the game. New York shot only 41.2% from the field and committed 10 fouls. The Knicks showed some sign of life with a 7-2 boost that took us to the 2:45 mark and a 80-60 lead. Memphis squeezed in a 10-4 spurt just before New York took a 86-70 lead into the 4th Quarter. Raymond Felton bought the Knicks some time with 7 points.

Here come the Memphis Grizzlies!!! For the first 5 minutes of the 4th Quarter is was Jerryd Bayless(9 points) vs JR Smith(8 points), NY 94-MEM 79. Bayless finished with 12 points in the quarter while Smith had 10 points. Over the next 4 minutes the Knicks survived the Grizzlies 10-6 push, NY 100-MEM 89. Memphis produced a critical 6-0 run over the next 1:30, NY 100-MEM 95. Jason Kidd makes his only shot of the game for the Knicks, a huge 3-PT at the 1:15 mark, NY 103-MEM 95. Over the next 45 seconds, Memphis would not die as they mustered one last 4-0 run, NY 103-MEM 99. New York finally closed the door with 5 straight free throws and the Knicks have won 6 in-a-row!!!

Head Coach Lionel Hollins was humble in defeat. “Obviously, we didn’t play well being down by 30 points. I’m proud of our guys showing character in the 2nd Half.” The mystery here is Zach Randolph barely played in the 2nd Half, stay tuned folks. Head Coach Mike Woodson basked in the sunset. “Games happen in spurts. If you can win the game going away, that’s fine. It doesn’t always go that way. What I like about it is we didn’t crack. That’s what I’m taking from it. The New York Knicks maintained their 2.5 game lead over the Brooklyn Nets who defeated the Portland Trailblazers. Next up on this home stand, the Charlotte Bobcats. New York is currently the #2 seed in the Eastern Conference and the feeling of this being a season like none other has captivated all Knicks Fans.(*T*M*C)

Written by Shelby Spencer

New York Brews Fresh Coffee In Beantown

(*T*M*C) On the road again. Going places the Knicks have often been. Seeing things that I may never see again. I can’t wait to see New York on the road again. After roasting the Raptors Saturday at Madison Square Garden by 26 points, the Knicks journeyed to Boston for another important divisional game against the Celtics. New York comes in winners of 4 straight and a 2 game lead over the Brooklyn Nets. Head Coach Mike Woodson has stated recently that the Knicks should look to win their remaining games at home and have at least a .500 record on the road. New York answered the call to duty by smashing Boston 100-85.

The Knicks were paced by JR Smith who scored 32 points(13-24 FGs, 5-5 FTs), 7 rebounds and 3 steals. Carmelo Anthony dropped 29 points, 8 rebounds and 3 steals but he was disgusting from the field shooting 10-30 FGs and 2-8 3-PTs. I understand his V.I.P. clause on New York’s roster but that’s not team basketball. Kenyon Martin continued to anchor the Knicks with 9 points(4-7 FGs, 1-2 FTs) and 5 rebounds. Once again, Steve Novak was solid off the bench with 9 points(3-6 3-PTs). The Celtics had good balance in defeat playing without Kevin Garnett(ankle) and Courtney Lee(ankle). Jeff Green had 19 points(6-14 FGs, 6-6 FTs), 10 rebounds and 6 assists. Paul Pierce added 16 points(5-10 FGs, 5-7 FTs), 6 rebounds and 6 assists. Jordan Crawford produced 14 points(5-11 FGs, 2-2 FTs), 6 assists and 4 rebounds. Brandon Bass collected 11 points(5-6 FGs, 1-1 FTs), 7 rebounds and 3 blocks.

The 1st Quarter started slowly for both teams. New York was 1-6 and Boston 1-4 from the field. At the 7:00 mark, the Celtics floated to an 8-4 advantage. The Knicks answered with a 6-2 spurt to tie the game at the 5:00 mark. The action picked up substantially and New York closed out the quarter with a 28-24 lead. The Knicks scored the last 5 points of the quarter in 45 seconds. JR Smith emerged off the bench with 10 points(3-3 FGs, 4-4 FTs). Carmelo Anthony did have 11 points but was 4-10 from the field. Yes, Carmelo Anthony leads the NBA in 1st Quarter scoring with 9+ points/game. Feed the post! Kenyon Martin is on the blocks and Boston didn’t have a shot blocker on the court. For Boston, Jordan Crawford tallied 9 points(4-5 FGs) and Jeff Green added 6 points(2-7 FGs).

Jason Terry went on a 7-0 run to kick-start Boston in the 2nd Quarter. At the 7:47 mark, we had a 35-35 tie. New York sprinted to a 14-0 run and a 49-35 lead with 4:00 remaining. Boston was playing uphill for the rest of the game, a true standing 8-count. Fortunately, Carmelo Anthony only took 6 shots for 7 points. This time JR Smith was a shoddy 4-10 from the field and had 11 points. The Knicks’ defense took over the 1st Half. The Celtics were held to 41% shooting in the 2nd Quarter and committed 9 turnovers in the first 24 minutes. New York had a commanding 58-44 lead at the intermission.

Head Coach Mike Woodson was satisfied with his team’s early performance. “I believe you should hold a team under 25 pts in a quarter”. New York completed that goal in both quarters. “Boston doesn’t have a shot blocker in there so we must continue to mix-up our shot selection.” Head Coach Glen “Doc” Rivers was frustrated. “We’ve got to play with pace! We’ve got to get pace in the game! We need more fight, more pace! They are playing through us! We’ve got to take it back at them!”

The Celtics responded to the alarm with an 8-2 run in the first 2 minutes of the 3rd Quarter, NY 60-Bos 52. The Knicks countered with a 7-2 run over the next 2 minutes, NY 67-Bos 54. Boston pushed back with an 8-2 edge, NY 69-Bos 62. New York finished the quarter strong with a 14-7 blitz which included a huge buzzer-beating, 3-PT by JR Smith, NY 83-Bos 69. That was the beginning of the end. Boston committed 6 more turnovers. Jeff Green scored 9 points(3-4 FGs, 1-1 3-PT, 2-2 FTs). Paul Pierce, 6 points(2-4 FGs, 2-2 FTs). New York’s JR Smith scored 7(3-7 FGs). Kenyon Martin had 4 points(2-2 FGs). Along with 2 senseless fouls early, Carmelo Anthony was a despicable 1-8 FGs, 0-3 3-PTs and 4-5 FTs for 6 points. It’s totally unnecessary for Anthony to try and get “his” at the expense of the team. That’s right, I said it!

As the 4th Quarter arrived. The Knicks seemed to put it on auto-pilot while The Celtics raised the White Flag. Carmelo Anthony had 5 points while JR Smith added 4 points for New York. Terrence Williams scored 5 points for Boston. The Knicks were dominant with 2nd-Chance points 29-6 while winning the turnover battle 8-19. The Celtics have now lost 5 games in-a-row slipping 7.5 games behind the New York in the Atlantic Division. Boston will visit Madison Square Garden on Sunday 3/31 for their final meeting this season. Tonight, the Memphis Grizzlies visit the “World’s Most Famous Arena” with a 47-23 record at 7:30pm. Good to the last drop.(*T*M*C)

Written by Shelby Spencer

New York Clinches Playoff Ride At Jurassic Park

(*T*M*C) “O Canada! Our home and native land! True patriot love, in all thy sons command. With glowing hearts, we see thee rise, the True North strong and free! From far and wide, O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. God keep our land, glorious and free. O Canada, we stand on guard for thee. O Canada, we stand on guard for thee!!!” You don’t often get an opportunity to go against an entire nation but the Toronto Raptors are holding up that blood-stained banner. In their 3rd year after the Chris Bosh Era, they are the WELCOME mat of the Atlantic Division. With that said, the Toronto Raptors have been a thorn in the side of the New York Knicks taking the first 2 contests with this home-and-home, back-to-back remaining this season. Head Coach Mike Woodson searched for answers. “I wish I knew why they play so well against us. We’ve played well in stretches. We had that awful 3rd Quarter in that one game. When it comes to guarding Rudy Gay, you have to give him different looks.” Rudy Gay averages 20 points/game against New York. Jason Kidd had some insight on overcoming injuries. “We trust in one another. We believe in one another.” Marcus Camby gave us more on the team’s pulse. “Win our home games and figure it out on the road. If we do that, we’ll put ourselves in a good position for the Playoffs.”

The New York Knicks did just that by outlasting the Toronto Raptors 99-94 and clinching a playoff spot at Air Canada Centre. New York’s Carmelo Anthony was a beast when it counted the most going for 37 points(14-31 FGs, 2-8 3-PTs, 7-11 FTs), 6 rebounds and 2 blocks. Kenyon Martin was spectacular with 19 points(9-10 FGs, 1-2 FTs), 11 rebounds and 2 steals. JR Smith had a big impact off the bench adding 14 points(5-10 FGs, 1-3 3-PTs, 3-7 FTs), 5 rebounds and 3 assists. Toronto’s Alan Anderson came off the bench with a monster night. 35 points(11-18 FGs, 6-11 3-PTs, 7-8 FTs), 6 rebounds and 3 assists. DeMar DeRozen produced the most from the starters with 18 points(7-14 FGs, 1-3 3-PTs, 3-3 FTs), 3 rebounds and 2 assists. Jonas Valanciunas was solid with 10 points(5-6 FGs, 0-1 FTs) and 7 rebounds.

The 1st Quarter began with a good wrestling match to the 7:00 mark. New York shot 5-10 FGs, 0-2 3-PTs and 2-2 FTs to take a 12-11 lead. Toronto shot 5-8 FGs, 1-3 3-PTs in that same span. Over the next 5 minutes, the Knicks had a 13-4 burst and a 25-15 advantage. New York’s defense was as solid as a rock in that stretch. Anthony turned the offense into a melodrama. Yes, he led all scores in the quarter with 9 points but he was 3-10 from the field! Unacceptable when Kenyon Martin contributed 4 points(2-2 FGs) and 4 rebounds. Feed the post! More Bad News, Toronto went on a 7-0 run over the last 2 minutes and were only down 25-22. The Raptors had good balance. Landry Fields, 5 points(2-3 FGs, 1-1 3-PTs) and 3 rebounds. Rudy Gay, 4 points(2-5 FGs, 0-1 3-PT) and 2 rebounds. DeMar DeRozan, 4 points(2-5 FGs, 0-1 3-PT), 2 rebounds and 2 assists. Alan Anderson, 5 points(2-4 FGs, 1-2 3-PTs).

The Knicks’ defense dominated the 2nd quarter. DeMar DeRozan did score 5 points but the Raptors were held to 5-20 from the field(2-8 3-PTs) for 25% shooting. New York recorded 10-18 FGs(4-7 3-PTs) which translated into 55.6% and a 50-37 Halftime lead. More Good News, Carmelo Anthony only took 5 shots to get 5 points. Jason Kidd added 6 points(2-3 FGs, 2-2 3-PTs). Steve Novak poured in 5 points(2-2 FGs, 1-1 3-PTs). At the 7:04 mark, Rudy Gay left the game with back spasms and didn’t return.

Easy come, Easy go. The Raptors registered 37 points in the entire 1st Half. Toronto blitzed New York for 34 points in the 3rd Quarter. Alan Anderson lit up the Knicks’ defense scoring 20 points(6-6 FGs, 3-3 3-PTs, & 5-6 FTs). Overall, the Raptors shot a tremendous 75% with 12-16 FGs, 5-8 3-PTs and 5-7 FTs while cutting the deficit to 77-71. The Knicks were on fire as well shooting 64.7% from the field. 11-17 FGs, 2-3 3-PTs and 1-2 FTS. Carmelo Anthony, 11 points(5-5 FGs, 1-1 3-PTs. Kenyon Martin, 9 points(4-4 FGs, 1-2 FTs).

The duel continued into the 4th Quarter. With 3:59 remaining, The Knicks were up 94-84. New York’s perimeter defense was pivotal in restricting the Raptors to 2-9(22.2%) from downtown and 42.1% overall. The Knicks remained hot from the field shooting 60%. 9-15 FGs, 1-3 3-PTs. Toronto’s last stand was fueled by New York’s 5-11 FTs(45.5%) down the stretch. The Raptors end the game on a 10-5 run but could get no closer. Carmelo Anthony dropped another 11 points to keep Alan Anderson, 8 points and DeMar DeRozan, 7 points at bay. The New York Knicks are going back to the Playoffs for the 3rd consecutive year!!!

Kenyon Martin shared his thoughts on moving from the outhouse to the penthouse. “I play this way every night. I give 110%. Tonight, I got more touches. It’s a blessing to be playing in the NBA. It’s unfortunate that it’s due to injury but I’ll take it.” Raymond Felton talked on where do we go from here. “We made a pact not to lose anymore at home. It’s just a challenge that Woody(Head Coach Mike Woodson) put in front of us.” Head Coach Mike Woodson addressed the heavy minutes for his core guys. “We got to play every game as if it’s our last. Brooklyn isn’t going anywhere. Boston isn’t going anywhere. They are both playing for something.”

The next task is to win the Atlantic Division. Beating the Toronto Raptors tonight at Madison Square Garden would provide a huge lift. Winning last night at Air Canada Centre, gave New York an 1.5 game lead over Brooklyn(2nd Place) who were idle. Boston(3rd Place) fell to 3.5 games back after losing in Dallas.(*T*M*C)

Written By Shelby Spencer

Knicks Prove Tragic For The Magic

(*T*M*C) We’re told that home is where the heart is. For the New York Knicks and its fans on Wednesday night, that would be the “World’s Most Famous Arena”, Madison Square Garden. After a brutal road trip where New York posted a 1-4 record, facing the 18-50 Orlando Magic seemed to be just what the doctor ordered. Now the Knicks have lost 5-7 games. This has allowed the Brooklyn Nets to pull within 1 game of the Atlantic Divison lead. Head Coach Mike Woodson took it all in stride. “I watch it(Atlantic Division Standings), I research it, I look at it. I can’t worry about what other teams are doing? I’m not begging for somebody to lose, we’ve got to win.”

A major distraction this month for New York have been a rash of injuries. It was recently revealed that Kurt Thomas played on a stress fracture in his foot during the 90-83 victory over Utah Monday night. It looks like he’s lost for a month. He joins Amare Stoudemire(knee) and Tyson Chandler(neck) on a list of Knicks sorely missed. Head Coach Mike Woodson shares our pain. “We started the season with more than enough Bigs. Losing Kurt Thomas is a huge lost.” Now for the Good News. After missing 6 of the last 8 games, Carmelo Anthony made his return to the starting lineup. “My knee is fine. I sat out. I took care of it, hopefully. I can’t go out there thinking about it, like I did in previous games. We know how that turned out. We still believe that we’re going to win the Atlantic Division. We’ll win our division, that’s our confidence. In terms of winning a NBA Championship, we’ll take it a day at a time.”

So here comes the Orlando Magic who started the season 12-13. As they finish their first year after the Dwight Howard Era, the Magic have been atrocious since at 6-37. Head Coach Mike Woodson rung the alarm. “It’s all about stops. We’ve got to start building. Everybody has got to be ready to play.” New York responded nicely, going wire-to-wire, in beating Orlando 106-94. JR Smith led all scores with 22 points(8-16 FGs, 4-5 FTs) and 7 rebounds off the bench. Carmelo Anthony looked just fine with 21 points(7-14 FGs, 4-6 FTs) and 8 rebounds. Kenyon Martin continues to rise in value scoring 11 points and 3 rebounds. Steve Novak was solid as well with 11 points(4-8 FGs, 3-7 3-PTs) and 3 rebounds. The Orlando Magic(18-51) were pretty balanced in defeat. Tobias Harris, 14 points(7-10 FGs) and 5 rebounds. Andrew Nicholson, 14 points(5-8 FGs, 4-6 FTs) and 3 rebounds. Beno Udrih, 13 points(5-8 FGs, 3-3 FTs), 8 assists & 3 rebounds. Kyle O’Quinn, 12 points(5-10 FGs, 2-4 FTs), 14 rebounds & 4 assists.

New York started the game quickly up 12-5 after the first 4 minutes. The Knicks were 5-7 from the field(2-3 3-PTs). Over the next 6 minutes, New York went on 12-6 run and boosted their lead to 24-11. Once again the Knicks were 5-7 from the field(2-3 3-PTs). As the 1st Quarter came to a close, New York shot 58% FGs(4-8 3-PTs) and  produced a 26-15 lead. Carmelo Anthony 7 points(3-6 FGs, 1-2 3-PTs) paced the Knicks. Kyle O’Quinn came of the bench for the Magic with 5 points.

Apparently New York decided to take a power nap as Orlando went on a 7-0 run within the first 2 minutes of the 2nd Quarter, NY 26-ORL 22. The next 3 minutes saw a 9-2 burst from the Knicks, NY 35-ORL 24. The Magic roared back with a 12-4 push over the next 4 minutes, NY 39-ORL 36. New York punched back in the next minute with an 8-2 spurt, NY 47-ORL 38. Orlando closed out the quarter on a 6-1 run and trimmed the deficit to 51-46 at the Half. Orlando’s bench continued to shine. Beno Udrih had 8 points while Andrew Nicholson added 5 points. Carmelo Anthony scored another 7 points for New York showing little rust from missing the last 3 games.

The Knicks started to pour it on in the 3rd Quarter outscouring the Magic 32-19. Runs of 10-4 & 16-6 overwhelmed the Magic. New York shot 12-19 from the field(63.2%) and 5-8 from downtown(62.5%). Carmelo Anthony & JR Smith paced NY with 7 points each. Kenyon Martin was just as strong with 5 points. Tobias Harris tried to keep it respectable for Orlando with 8 points but New York took a commanding 83-65 advantage into the 4th Quarter.

With news that Iman Shumpert wouldn’t play in the 2nd half due to his surgically-repaird left knee, Head Coach Mike Woodson was cautious in 4th Quarter as they closed out Orlando. Carmelo Anthony & Raymond Felton were given the rest of the game off. JR Smith & James White guarded the lead for the Knicks with 7 points each. The Magic got as close as 95-86 with 3:35 remaining. Andrew Nicholson scored 7 points(2-4 FGs, 3-5 FTs) and 3 rebounds. Doron Lamb added 6 points(2-2 FGs, 1-1 3-PTs 1-1 FT) and 3 rebounds.

Iman Shumpert addressed his concern for the possible setback late in the 1st Half. “I took a step to explode and felt a “pop”. Trainer told me that it was hopefully scar tissue. It just scared me because the last time I heard a “pop”, I was out 8 months.” Head Coach Mike Woodson turned the attention to the rest of the season. “We’ve got to win the rest of our home games and be at least .500 for the remaining games on the road. We are not looking over or shoulder. We have to take care of business.” For all those that adore Madison Square Garden, there’s no place like home. (*T*M*C)

Written by Shelby Spencer

Talking All That Jazz

(*T*M*C*) Here at last! Here at last! Thank God Almighty, this road trip ends here at last! How ironic that this battle would take place in Energy Solutions Arena. Over the last 4 games, New York hasn’t had the energy or any solutions while on these excursions. Marcus Camby agreed. “We have allowed a couple of these games to get away from us. Being under-handed isn’t an excuse.” Knicks Great, Walt “Clyde” Frazier gave some insight. “I’m surprised there hasn’t been a team only meeting by this time. The Knicks have struggled in the transition game. They haven’t sustained leads once teams have started to run & gun. Way too many offensive stupors.” In comes the Utah Jazz, 24-8 at home and 3-0 in the month of March. The New York Knicks haven’t won in Salt Lake City since 2007. That’s 5 straight loses. Head Coach Mike Woodson rung the alarm. “This is the getaway game. We didn’t come here to lose every game on this road trip. Are we willing to do anything and everything to turn this around? We can’t panic at this juncture. We’ve got 18 games left. We have to win our home games and hope to go .500 on the road when we get everybody back, if we get everybody back.”

The New York Knicks responded with a huge defensive effort in defeating the Utah Jazz 90-83. JR Smith returned from the dead with 20 points(9-10 FT) and 5 rebounds. Raymond Felton scored 19 points(8-12 FGs, 2-3 3-Pt), 4 assists, 3 steals. Chris Copeland added 14 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists. Kenyon Martin chipped in with 9 points(4-6 FGs), 9 rebounds. New York held Utah to 38.2% shooting from the field. Gordon Hayward was Utah’s biggest producer with 17 points(6-14 FGs, 3-6 3-Pts), 2 rebounds, 3 assists and 4 blocks. Paul Millsap had 12 points(4-9 FGs, 4-4 FTs), 5 rebounds and 2 steals. Al Jefferson scored 10 points(4-13 FGs, 2-2 FTs), 11 rebounds, 3 assists. Mo Williams added 9 points(4-14 FGs, 1-2 3-Pt), 6 rebounds, 5 assists and 2 steals. Marvin Williams came off the bench with 10 points(4-7 FGs, 2-4 FTs) and 6 rebounds.

Once again, New York started the game crisp. Raymond Felton was very impressive recording 9 points(4-6 FGs, 1-1 3-Pt), 2 assists, 2 steals. Chris Copeland, who seems to be flourishing with the increased responsibility, was just as strong with 7 points. Kenyon Martin add 4 points and 4 rebounds. Utah’s Randy Foye, a 40% 3-Pt shooter, hit 2-3 from downtown for 6 points. Gordon Hayward, recently restored in the starting lineup, had 5 points. Al Jefferson contributed 4 points(2-3 FGs) and 4 rebounds. The Knicks forced 6 turnovers and ended the 1st Quarter leading 23-21.

Entering the 2nd Quarter, New York had too many lapses. Within the first minute, the Knicks had 2 team fouls and 2 turnovers. JR Smith was sleep walking going only 1-6 for the half. Iman Shumpert hit 2 from deep late to provide 6 points. Chris Copeland stayed aggressive when called upon with 4 points. Good News, New York forced another 8 turnovers, 14 for the half which generated 21 points. The pleasant surprise, Knicks out-rebounded the Jazz 18-10. Bad News, leading 42-36 with 1:32 remaining, New York was burned by an 8-0 run and 44-42 Utah advantage. Paul Millsap scored 6 points. Marvin Williams & Enes Kanter each provided 5 points off the bench.

The Knicks sprinted to an 8-2 run to open the 3rd Quarter. New York’s defense gave them a 50-46 lead at the 8:41 mark. The Jazz countered with an 8-0 run. Gordon Hayward hit 2 from long distance in less than a minute. He sparked Utah with 8 points. Al Jefferson tried to maintain the momentum as well with 6 points. The Jazz were up 54-50 with 6:11 left in the quarter. Suddenly, JR Smith awakes from his offensive coma by attacking the basket. His 10 points(6-6 FT) and 5 points from Kenyon Martin help to give New York a 66-63 lead as the 3rd Quarter ended.

New York took control of the game in the 4th Quarter on the strength of Raymond Felton’s 9 points and JR Smith’s 8 points. Kurt Thomas anchored the defense that held Utah to 20 points for the quarter, 39 points for the half. Thomas also chipped in with 4 points. Utah’s Alec Burks and Mo Williams each had 5 points but the Jazz never saw the lead again.

The stakes were high in this match-up. The Brooklyn Nets beat the Detroit Pistons earlier last night. A lost by New York would have caused a 1st place tie within the Atlantic Division. The Phoenix Suns defeated the Los Angeles Lakers earlier. A win by Utah would have caused a tie for the 8th and final playoff spot in the Western Conference. The Knicks flew home earlier this morning to prepare for the Orlando Magic on Wednesday. I don’t think I’ve seen Head Coach Mike Woodson this relieved. “Great win for our ball club, for our franchise. We just made plays tonight. Pablo(Prigioni) set the tone by putting heat on the ball. It’s a total team effort but our defense carried us. I gave Kurt Thomas the game ball. There aren’t too many games where he’s going to play 26 minutes. We were hungry for a win before going home.” (*T*M*C)

Written Shelby Spencer

Lob Angeles Coasts By Old York

(*T*M*C) When you talk about NYC and LA, the red carpet is soon to follow. The biggest and brightest tend to dominate the stage. Lights, cameras,  and not enough action as the Los Angeles Clippers smacked the New York Knicks 93-80. Chris Paul guided the Clippers with 20 points, 8 assists and 4 rebounds and their balance was the story of the game. Caron Butler produced 15 points and 5 rebounds. Blake Griffin added 12 points, 12 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 blocks. One-time Knick, Chauncey Billups dropped 12 points, 5 assists, and 4 rebounds. DeAndre Jordan contributed 8 points, 10 rebounds and 2 blocks. Another one-time Knick, Jamal Crawford came off the bench with 12 points.

The Knicks were led by Raymond Felton 16 points(2-4 3-pt), 9 assists and 3 rebounds. Chris Copeland had a nice game with 13 points(3-4 3-pt), 4 rebounds and 2 assists. Jason Kidd was solid off the bench with 11 points(3-5 3-pt), 4 rebounds and 2 assists. Steve Novak provided 9 points(3-3 3-pt), which ended a streak where he missed 12 straight. JR Smith did have 17 points but he was absolutely horrible shooting 4-20(20%) from the field which included 1-7(14.3%) from long distance.

The 1st Quarter started with New York sprinting to a 13-5 lead. The Knicks made 5 of 7 FGs and were 3-3 from deep. Felton along with Copeland set the pace notching 6 & 5 points, respectively. New York followed that with a 2-14 drought and finished shooting at 33.3%. Los Angeles was lifted by the energy of DeAndre Jordan with 6 points as they closed the 1st Quarter up 21-18.

The 2nd Quarter was marred by the Knicks shooting 6-22(27.3%). JR Smith had 10 of the 19 points for New York. Now, even though they were atrocious over the last 12 minutes, “I liked the way we got out and defended, ” said Head Coach Mike Woodson. That was key in  producing a 31-31 tie at the 6:35 mark. Los Angeles looked to Jamal Crawford(7 points) and Chris Paul(6 points) to re-establish the tempo that makes the Clippers so dangerous. New York fought hard but a 13-6 run by Los Angeles enabled a 44-37 halftime advantage.

Both teams shot well in the 3rd Quarter, Knicks 44.4% and Clippers 48%. Los Angeles was on the verge of blowing out New York with a 16-7 run as the tempo matched their personality. Blake Griffin & Caron Butler each scored 8 points while Chris Paul added 7 points. Jason Kidd kept the Knicks around with 9 points, hitting 3 straight from downtown but still trailing 65-53. Chris Copeland scored 5 points but the Clippers ended the quarter leading 72-60.

Los Angeles began the 4th Quarter on a 7-0 run. New York shot 8-20(40%) down the stretch. Chauncey Billups & Ryan Hollins each had 5 points to help keep the Knicks at bay. Raymond Felton scored 8 points & Steve Novak contributed 6 points as New York continued to fight. The Clippers sealed the deal by forcing JR Smith to shoot 0-8 in the quarter as the Knicks went up in flames.

This road trip cannot end soon enough. New York has lost their last 4 games by an average of 20 points. If the Brooklyn Nets defeat the Atlanta Hawks at the Barclays Center tonight, there will be a tie atop the Atlantic Division. Just what New York City needs, more drama. (*T*M*C)

Written by Shelby Spencer

Portland Blazes Past New York

(*T*M*C)The current West Coast Swing of the Knicks is turning into a mixture of natural disasters. On Monday night, New York scored only 63 points while getting crushed by 29 in Golden State. On Wednesday night, New York was smoked by 23 in Denver. To add injuries to insults, the Knicks lost Carmelo Anthony and Tyson Chandler to knee ailments. “No excuses. I’m going to coach ’em up. We are here to win the division.” The strong words of Head Coach Mike Woodson did little to prevent the 105-90 lashing by the Portland Trailblazers last night.

Portland’s starters were dominant for most of the game. Rookie Of The Year-elect, Damian Lillard engineered the attack with 26 points(11-18 FGs) and 10 assists. All-Star LaMarcus Aldridge scored 22 points(8-15 FGs), 10 rebounds and 5 blocks. Nicholas Batum, 16 points(6-10 FGs, 4-7 3-Pts), 6 rebounds and 4 assists. Wesley Matthews, 14 points and 5 rebounds. J.J. Hickson, 12 points and 16 rebounds. New York’s JR Smith led all scores with 33 points(11-21 FGs, 4-8 3-Pts, 7-10 FTs). Kenyon Martin added 12 points(6-10 FGs) and 4 rebounds. Raymond Felton & Marcus Camby made their return to the Rose Garden with 12 & 8 points, respectively.

The Knicks started the game sharp, shooting 62% from the field and a 30-22 lead at the end of the 1st Quarter. Kenyon Martin, recently signed for the remainder of the year, led with 8 points(4-5 FGs). Chris Copeland chipped in with 6 points. For the Trailblazers, Nicholas Batum scored 8 points(3-5 FGs). Damian Lillard added 7 points(3-5 FGs). The start of the 2nd Quarter saw Marcus Camby score 6 of New York’s first 11 points and a 41-28 lead, their biggest of the game. Portland countered with a 23-7 run led by Wesley Matthews’ 7 points and closed the 1st half with a 51-48 advantage.

In the 3rd Quarter, the Knicks needed rain. New York shot 5-27 from the field(18.5%). JR Smith tallied 6 of the Knicks’ 14 points. The Trailblazers were paced by Damian Lillard, 7 points and LaMarcus Aldridge, 6 points. Portland used a 19-8 run to take a commanding 78-62 lead. New York showed signs of life in the beginning of the 4th quarter with a 14-2 run. JR Smith caught fire with a quick 11 points to cut the deficit to 80-76. Lillard & Aldridge took it from there for Portland with 8 points each. This fueled another 19-8 run making it 99-84 with 2 minutes remaining, the beginning of the end!

After starting the season 18-5, the New York Knicks have gone 20-20 in their last 40 games. The blood bath of a road trip lands in Los Angeles on Sunday against the Clippers. This is a standing 8-count! The Atlantic Division, high playoff seeding and the hope of avoiding 40 consecutive years without a NBA Title can all burn to the ground. (*T*M*C)

Written by Shelby Spencer

Noche De Nueva York, Muy Bien

(*T*M*C)On Saturday, March 9, 2013, The World’s Most Famous Arena was the sight of Noche De Latina. A time to celebrate Spanish Heritage Month. The New York Knicks were the life of the party crushing the Utah Jazz 113-84. JR Smith led all scores with 24 points, 6 rebounds and 3 assists. Steve Novak was clutch with 20 points and 2 assists. Raymond Felton added 15 points and 4 assists. They were a combined 10-21 from long distance. New York was without their stars Carmelo Anthony and Amar’e Stoudemire due to knee injuries. Anthony continues to be day-to-day but Stoudemire will be missed for at least 6 weeks.

The Utah Jazz were paced by Alec Burks 14 points, Gordon Hayward 13 points and Enes Kanter 11 points. None of the starters scored in double figures and were missing Paul Millsap with a knee injury as well. This was the end of a 4-game road trip for Utah where they lost the previous 3 games by a combined 5 points. Unfortunately for them, the worst was yet to come.

Utah jumped out to a 11-4 lead with 9:14 left in the 1st Quarter. The Jazz hit their first 3 shots from downtown. New York answered with a 15-0 run and a 19-11 lead. Overall it turned into a 21-10 run as the Knicks ended the 1st Quarter up 25-21. Felton & Hayward led their teams with 6 points each. The 2nd Quarter saw a healthly exchange between both squads early. Later, Steve Novak started to light it up by hitting 3 of the 4 Knicks 3-pointers. A 10-0 run made it 41-29 Knicks. It transformed into a 21-2 run which gave New York a 52-31 lead. The Knicks defense was impressive holding the Jazz to 7-20 from the field and a 55-38 advantage at the half.

After the first 8 minutes of the 3rd quarter, the Knicks went on a 20-9 run to go up 75-47. JR Smith paced a balanced attack with 7 points. Kenyon Martin, fresh off another 10-day contract, scored 4 of his 10 points. The Jazz finished the quarter on a 12-3 run just to be down 78-59 at the end of the 3rd. New York closed the door in the 4th. The Knicks enjoyed their biggest lead at 101-71. Chris Copland scored all of his 12 points in the quarter while JR Smith added another 10.

The Knicks have a dangerous 5-game road trip ahead of them. They better pack this type of effort with them.(*T*M*C)

Written by Shelby Spencer