NY Knicks: The Knicks ended their home game stretch this past Sunday with a hard-fought victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves.
The Timberwolves (13-12) played without their All-Star player Kevin Love, who is out due to eye surgery. Despite their loss of Kevin Love, it was a very close game, coming down to the very last possessions.
The Knicks found themselves shooting horribly throughout most of the game, especially from downtown, shooting 19 percent. The Wolves defense was able to stop the Knicks high-powered offense.
J.R. Smith carried the Knicks for most of the game as Carmelo struggled from the field. Melo ended the 3rd quarter with only 14 points, while J.R. Smith had 19 points.
Uncharacteristic of the Knicks of late was the high amount of turnovers in the game. Previously averaging around four a game, they managed to turn the ball over more than ten times.
“We have had slow starts. Guys are banged up. If it’s beautiful or ugly you have to find a way to win the game. And we found a way to win,” said Steve Novak.
The Fourth Quarter was a complete turn around. The Knicks defense kicked in to full-swing, keeping the wolves under 20 points in order to climb their way back to tying the game.
“We kept fighting and playing defense. I think our defense won the game for us,” according to Raymond Felton
Down eleven points, Carmelo added hype to his MVP caliber season, scoring 19 of his 33 points – most notably a lay-up and foul shot with 2:30 left in the game to take the lead.
“It is almost expected. We are going to him down the stretch. Teams know it. We know it and he is still able to perform.”
Despite a last second turnover by J.R. Smith, which resulted in a 3 pointer by the Timberwolves, the Knicks edged out the victory, winning 91 to 94.
Romel Leherrison: PureSportNY