The New York Knicks and Toronto Raptors battled in yet another preseason game. This was a close contest as both teams wanted this win. The first quarter was evenly played as the Raptors ended the quarter with a one point lead. But in the second quarter the Knicks would play very strong quarter and would lead by nine at the half. The Knicks would amass a 13 point lead, but the Raptors would battle back late in the fourth quarter to force overtime. In the extra quarter of play the Raptors would take a quick seven point lead, but the Knicks would storm back to take the lead thanks to a 8-0 run. But with a few seconds left Terrence Ross would nail a three-pointer as time expired, sending this game into a second overtime. In the second overtime the Raptors would build a lead that they would lose. The Raptors would defeat the Knicks 123-120.
The Raptors had a fantastic game from Terrence Ross. His shot was on tonight and that’s what helped keep the Raptors in the game. Ross scored 27 points and was the Raptors leader down the stretch. If he can become a consistent shooter, the Raptors will have a strong role player. Tonight Ross made some very huge shots and was the main reason for the win.
DeMar DeRozan played yet another strong game against the Knicks as he scored 21 points. DeRozan made some big plays and really played inside tonight. His worth to the Raptors is huge because he gives the team another option for scoring.
For the Knicks, Metta World Peace led the Knicks with 16 points off the bench. World Peace connected on four three-pointers and really was a spark for the Knicks. His scoring isn’t necessary, but when he does score it gives the team a nice edge. He also grabbed six rebounds to go with his nice scoring output.
The bench play of Toure Murry will not go unnoticed tonight. Murry scored 12 points including a half court shot to end the third quarter. Murry continues to have a strong preseason and seems to be close to a spot on the team. His size and quickness is something the Knicks do not have at the point guard position. Murry gives them that and in my opinion should make the team.
The Knicks starters also had a nice scoring night. Tyson Chandler scored the most points in his preseason as he scored 15 points. Chandler was very active tonight on both ends. He did hit two jump shots tonight, something he’s been working on this offseason. That shot could help in certain situations, but not something to count on. Beno Udrih scored 19 points in his first start as a Knick. Udrih also dished out seven assists and really ran the offense quite nicely. Carmelo Anthony scored nine points and grabbed eight rebounds in 26 minutes. Anthony didn’t have his shot tonight, but made some nice defensive plays as he racked up three blocks.
Overall tonight was a very fun game. The preseason is winding down, but tonight felt like a regular season game. The Knicks will play again on Wednesday night when they face the Milwaukee Bucks looking to get back on track.
Photo Credit: Ron Turenne/NBAE via Getty Images
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