Despite getting another powerful performance from Carmelo Anthony tonight, the Knicks were unable to win the game.
Anthony would tie a season high in points as he scored 45 points with only ten missed shots. Anthony also grabbed 7 rebounds in his first game back after missing the last two with a hyperextended left knee. He really was able to get to his spots on the floor and really made the Blazers 
pay for playing lackluster defense. His shot was on and he was also able to draw fouls. He went to the free throw line 14 times tonight and really made the Blazers pay as he made 12 of the 14 free throws. Anthony really put the Knicks in the right position to win this game, but they came up short tonight.
Amare Stoudemire played in his first game of the season tonight. Stoudemire played 16 minutes while scoring 6 points. Stoudemire seemed amped early in the game, but once he settled and the Knicks ran some pick and rolls he was able to get easy shots. Tonight Stoudemire showed some signs of explosiveness and that is definitely a great sign.
Tonight JR Smith continued to play at a high level off the bench. Smith scored 28 points and grabbed 11 rebounds. Smith really impacted the game with excellent energy. He also was able to find his teammates as he dished out 5 assists. Defensively he also racked up 3 steals. Tonight Smith really performed at an elite level and has done so all season. With the Knicks having to reshuffle their starters with the injury to Raymond Felton, it would be interesting to see if Mike Woodson would start Smith. This season Smith has made an impact throughout the entire game. He hasn’t had great games in one area, but his all around game has really improved this season.
Defensively the Knicks have to get back to communicating on that end and work on helping the helper. Tonight they couldn’t protect the rim and they struggled to contain the three point shot. This was a very tough defensive effort tonight, but if they can get back to playing solid defense the entire night, they will be alright.
With this loss the Knicks suffered just their 10th defeat of the season and their 3rd at home. They play the San Antonio Spurs on Thursday night looking to snap this two game losing streak. Tonight they fell down by 19 and never could get the lead. They have to start games much better and give themselves a better chance to win games. Tonight the Knicks fell to the Blazers 105-100 in what was a very tough defensive game.
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