New York Knicks have everything they need to become serious contender in the Eastern Conference. But they need to overcome some issues that hinder them to achieve their potential and become the respected team.
The Knicks have a good coach Jeff Hornacek who can balance the need of triangle offense and his system. Knicks also have excellent scorer in Carmelo Anthony, a tremendeous defense from Kristaps Porzingis and powerful playmaker in Derrick Rose. They also have 16-14 records this season, but according to FOX Sports, they are struggling to win against the post-season caliber opponents.
Their 114-119 defeat in a Christmas game against Boston Celtics reiterates their status to show that Knicks players are still unable to win big games. Knicks showed a complacency in their defense as Anthony showed his reluctance to help the team in defense. In the meantime Rose was neutralized by the Celtics guards.
Nevertheless, their 11-5 home records and 5-9 on the away game for the 16-14 records showed improvement since the 4-6 records in the beginning of the season. Currently, they are at the 5th place in the East. However, according to New York Post, their records is hollow until they are able to defeat serious contenders and the players know that.
“I really hope one day we can beat the better teams.” center Joakim Noah said.
Up to now, New York Knicks is only able to defeat relevant teams when their opponents are without key players. They defeated Indiana Pacers on Dec. 20 that came to Madison Square Garden without Monta Ellis, and they also won against the Grizzlies without Tony Allen earlier in the game.
Coach Hornacek has some homework to keep the team from being complacent with their current records. Furthermore the Knicks must overcome their stage fright when facing notable opponents. They are still unable to overcome relevant teams in the East such as Cleveland Cavaliers or Boston, as Knicks lost in two games against those teams
Watch the full game highlights between Celtics and Knicks below: