Despite 6 first quarter turnovers, the Knicks were able to shoot 50% from the field led by Carmelo Anthony. Carmelo’s 12 early points gave the Knicks a 2 point advantage after 1 (24-22). Lackadaisical passing would lead to 6 more second quarter turnovers, but after being down by as many as 9, the Knicks fought back. Anthony’s continued aggression and a 14 PT 5 REB first half, pulled the Knicks within 2 heading to the locker room (51-49).

The 76er’s erupted in the second half. They simply made their shots shooting 51% from the floor, as opposed to the Knicks 41%. Lou Williams had a game-high 28 points on 10-19 shooting, but his 3-5 3-point shooting is what put the dagger in the Knicks. Whenever New York gained any momentum, Williams hit a big shot to end it. The Knicks started the 4th quarter with a 16-point deficit and would have to play from behind, as they’ve done in every game since the All-Star Break. We did see a sense of urgency as the Knicks began to intensify their defense and put together some stops. Once again, it appeared to be too little too late. A couple of J.R. Smith missed layups kept the Knicks out of reach. The Knicks dropped their 5th straight 106-94 and will head to Chicago to face the Bulls tomorrow.

THE PROBLEM? Why didn’t they play like that the whole game. I’m sure I am not the only person wondering this. Why didn’t they play like a team that has lost their last four games and is desperate for a win? There’s no question they have the talent, but the emotion is not there. Until they want it bad enough, this will continue.

We even heard “Fire D’antoni” chants from the Garden which were ill advised. He can only do so much, the Knicks were playing with NO intensity, something he cannot be blamed for.

STAT LINE:

Carmelo Anthony: 22 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists

Tyson Chandler: 8 points, 12 rebounds

Jeremy Lin: 14 points, 7 assists, 6 turnovers

Landry Fields: 13 points, 3 assists

BAD NEWS

1. Tyson Chandler seems to still be hurting as he held his wrist throughout the game.

2. It doesn’t get easier as the Knicks will take on the Bulls in Chicago tomorrow.

3. Baron Davis and Jeremy Lin are making weak passes combining for half of the Knicks turnovers (9).

GOOD NEWS

1. It can only go up from here.

Quotes After The Game

Stay with us knicks nation! Ill be better and we will improve as a team. Time to turn things around. - Jeremy Lin

It’s not fun. There’s no type of confidence out there. When we get down, it just seems like our whole energy goes out the door. – Carmelo Anthony

I’m stinking the garden up! Missing layups can’t make a shot! But still staying positive! Keep working hard an it will pay off! – J.R. Smith

DAVIS TO CHANDLER ALLEY-OOP