The New York Knicks defeated the Orlando Magic 103-98 tonight, but in the process also lost Carmelo Anthony and Raymond Felton. Anthony sprained his left ankle in third quarter and immediately left. Raymond Felton sprained his right groin in the fourth quarter and he left immediately. Both did not return and now the Knicks really have to hope neither misses time.
But in terms of the game the Knicks really had a great first half. They would score a season high 62 points in the first half leading by 25 at one point. But the Magic would battle back and would come within two points of tying the game before the Knicks were able to make free throws to hold the Magic off.
Tonight JR Smith really played a great game. It wasn’t just his scoring but his all around effort. Smith scored 18 points and grabbed ten rebounds in tonight’s win. The Knicks have been waiting for Smith to catch fire and tonight he did and it led to a win. His play is important for the team and he needs to bring the same energy and intensity to every game.
Iman Shumpert, who has struggled mightily this season, made some huge plays for the Knicks late in this game. First he made a key steal that led to an uncontested layup and then a strip of Glen Davis on a fast break that prevented a layup. This really wasn’t a high scoring game for Shumpert, but the little things win games and tonight he was able to bring the effort late to help the team.
Before his injury, Carmelo Anthony scored 19 points on 50% shooting. He really was in a rhythm early on and found open looks multiple times. It’s always tough to see a player get injured, but for the Knicks this injury really hurts because Anthony has been the consistent player for them. Hopefully he won’t miss time and this injury doesn’t linger.
The Magic really changed course in the second half as they really made this one tough for the Knicks to win. Arron Afflalo was the leader as he scored a game high 26 points. He also shot 53% from the field and continues to be a bright spot for the Magic.
The Magic starters as a whole did a great job tonight as every one scored in double figures. They really did an excellent job in getting back into the game and battled nicely against the Knicks poor defense.
Overall this was a very solid game for both teams. The Knicks in particular came up with a win against a team they had to beat.
The Knicks will next play on Wednesday afternoon when they battle the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Magic will play the Detroit Pistons on Friday night looking to bounce back after tonight’s defeat.
Photo Credit: Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images
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