Raptors defeat Knicks 92-88

What a wild night at Madison Square Garden!

In a game that saw the Knicks up by 11 points, the Raptors were able to battle back and win this game 92-88.

This was a poor performance by the Knicks, who really struggled in the third quarter. They played with low energy and really looked like a team ready for the All-Star break.

Defensively, they struggled to contain Alan Anderson, as he scored 26 points off the bench. His six three-pointers were the difference in this game. The Knicks continued to leave him open and he would continue to make them pay. This team has struggled defensively over the last month and tonight that was their issue.

Carmelo Anthony really struggled tonight with his shooting. Anthony shot 5 of 24 from the field for 12 points. At times in this game Anthony could be seen clutching his right arm, but he would continue to play. That could be a reason for his struggles tonight.

JR Smith was possibly the brightest part of tonight’s game. Smith scored 26 points in 33 minutes off the bench. He really attacked the basket and used his elusiveness to get to the rim. This was one of his better performances because it wasn’t all about shooting. This game should be a building block for Smith in terms of his aggressiveness going to the basket.

The Knicks outrebounded the Raptors 52-35, but their opportunities to score were met with missed shots. They have a long time to think about tonight’s loss, but they simply have to move on. There were some things they did well tonight, but they struggled with both offense and defense which cost them the game. The Knicks will next play the Indiana Pacers on next Wednesday.

Photo Credit: AP Photo/Frank Franklin II

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