Knicks defeat Raptors 99-94

The New York Knicks defeated the Toronto Raptors 99-94. And with tonight’s win, the Knicks clinched a playoff berth.

With tonight’s game being one the Knicks wanted they needed to come out with energy. They would do that early on and would work a 15 point lead. But the Raptors would claw their way back into the game with excellent play from Alan Anderson. He would single handily bring the Raptors back into the game with his six three-pointers. Anderson would score a career high 35 points tonight and really took it to the Knicks defense.

Anderson continued to play the Knicks great tonight. He has taken it to the Knicks in all three games this season. Tonight his effort came up on the losing end, but he really had a nice game otherwise.

Carmelo Anthony was the Knicks leader on the offense as he scored 37 points in 43 minutes of action. Anthony had a very huge second half as he scored 22 points. His fade away jumper was working for him in the third quarter as he took advantage of the smaller defender. The Knicks really needed Anthony tonight because the Raptors had to double him every time he caught the ball. That would allow the other players on the team to have shots at scoring.

The most important person tonight was Kenyon Martin. His 19 points and 11 rebounds were both season highs. He really has stepped up for the Knicks since the injury to Amare Stoudemire and Tyson Chandler. His presence on defense is also important. Tonight he two steals and a blocked shot, proving that he is still a solid defender. Martin shot 9 of 10 from the field, with most of his points coming from around the rim. This performance was solid, and really was the major influence in the Knicks winning tonight.

With tonight’s game now in the books, the Knicks now have their 41st win of the season. They will play the Raptors tomorrow night at Madison Square Garden. Both teams have played each other well this season, but that game should be really intense.

Photo Credit: AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Nathan Denette

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