(Photo Courtesy of nba.com)
The Knicks traveled to Chicago Sunday with a five game losing streak coming into the game. Chicago dominated New York as the Knicks would lose in blow out fashion (109-90) for the third straight game. This would mark the Knicks sixth straight loss as their playoff chances continue to fade fast.
The Bulls would get out to a 37-16 first quarter lead and never really look back from there. Besides a mini Knicks run in the second quarter the Bulls dominated the game to a point where the result was never in question. Joakim Noah finished with his fifth career triple double totaling 13 points, 12 rebounds, and 14 assists on the day. Noah set a franchise record for single game assists for a center. The Bulls scored 100 points for the fourth straight game and also set a franchise low in turnovers in a game, giving the ball away just three times. DJ Augustine continued to play great as he has been a key for this Chicago team who has really turned it on in the new year. Seven Players were in double figures in points including Jimmy Butler (19) and Carlos Boozer (14.)
Carmelo Anthony had 21 points as he continued to try and carry the Knicks as he has done all season long. Anthony called it “embarrassing” and “frustrating” as he continues to grow tired of losing following a season where the Knicks totaled 54 wins. As his upcoming free agency looms but Anthony reiterated after the game that he can only focus on right now.
Tyson Chandler collected 22 rebounds in the loss while Tim Hardaway Jr. and Amare’ Stoudemire had 14 points each. JR Smith was also in double figures as he added 13 points to the Knicks total. Iman Shumpert was back but continued to struggle as he went for just three points on 1-6 shooting from the field.
Jimmer Fredette would come into the game late in the fourth quarter to a warm welcoming crowd in his first appearance as a Bull. He would sink his first shot asa member of the team as the crowd cheered him on.
The Knicks will next travel to Detroit Monday night, who they have split the two games they have played against each other so far this season. With 22 games left in the regular season every game is now so crucial to the Knicks as they hope to make the playoffs.
PureSportsNY: Tyler Henry