Today was a very sloppy game for the Knicks. With 17 turnovers today, the Knicks really struggled in the second half. In fact the Knicks had a total of 8 turnovers in the second half with four in the fourth quarter. Those turnovers really caused their defense to struggle to get back. The Heat took advantage an won the game 99-93.
Other then the turnovers, the Miami Heat really did an excellent job in defending the Knicks in the second half. That intensity on the defense really was the difference late in the game. LeBron James was a effective player today. James really did an excellent job in impacting the game on both sides of the ball. James scored 29 points with 11 rebounds and 7 assists.
Carmelo Anthony scored a game high 32 points tonight. Most of his points came early in the game, but overall he did have a solid game. Anthony was guarded early by Udonis Haslem and Shane Battier, but the Heat switched to LeBron James in the second half and he really did a solid job in preventing Anthony from scoring.
Jason Kidd really was the difference early on as he scored 14 points in this game. His three point shot was a difference for him as he collected four three point baskets. He also rebounded the ball and passed the ball. This was a very nice all around effort by Kidd who really had an excellent game. It is also worth noting that Kidd did play 34 minutes tonight. The Knicks do play tomorrow night, so it will be very interesting to see how much he plays in that game.
Amare Stoudemire and JR Smith really were nice contributors in this game as both combined for 25 points. Both played well in spots, and really gave the Knicks excellent contributions off the bench. Smith also grabbed 12 rebounds tonight, marking his second consecutive game with ten or more rebounds.
This was a tough loss by the Knicks who led by 16 points at one point in this game. The Heat were able to get back into this game and that was the difference. They changed with how the game was played which allowed them to get what they wanted in this game. The Knicks will have to travel to Cleveland as they take on the Cavaliers tomorrow night.
Photo Credit: Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images
Twitter: @CaardelEaddy and or @CaardelsBlog
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