Knicks defeat Lakers 110-103

The Knicks won a very important game today as they defeated the Lakers 110-103.

After scoring a franchise record 62 points, Carmelo Anthony had another strong game. Anthony went on to score 35 points and also added five assists. His play has been marvelous to watch this season as he plays at a very consistent pace. Today, like every game this season, he competed and gave the Knicks some great minutes.

Overall this was a must win situation for New York. They have a horrible record and now have to climb back up in the standings. The Lakers aren’t a bad team, but they have so many injuries that the Knicks had to take advantage of. The Lakers played a very well fought game and really competed for the most part. In the end they just didn’t have the defense needed to win.

Jodie Meeks was spectacular for the Los Angeles as he scored a team high 24 points. His shot was perfect tonight as he connected on six three-pointers. His play this season has really been very consistent for LA. Today he bought a very nice effort and really did his job to keep Los Angeles in the game. His teammate, Pau Gasol, also was a help as he scored 20 points and grabbed 13 rebounds. Gasol used his size to make plays inside. He hasn’t always been consistent, but today he really played nice for the Lakers.

After playing inconsistent for a stretch of games, Raymond Felton bounced back nicely today as he scored 20 points. He found opportunities to score and converted on them.

The real spark for New York was the play of Tim Hardaway Jr., who played a very smart game. He not only took shots, but drove the ball to the basket. Unlike some of his teammates, Hardaway looked to penetrate and used his size to create space for baskets around the basket. His energy is important to this team. Today he provided a huge spark that would lift the team and ultimately would lead to a win.

The Knicks have looked much better in the last two games. But looking at the full scope of things, their defense has to improve and none bigger then their transition defense. Today they allowed 15 fast break points to their just two points. That area shows their lack of effort to get back on defense. They have struggled with this the entire season and teams have destroyed them this season knowing that. Certain games will come down to limiting fast break points, tonight didn’t, but that has to be an area to clean up.

Looking ahead the Knicks will play the Boston Celtics on Tuesday looking to build off two nice games. The Lakers on the other hand will head home to face Indiana Pacers looking to upset a very good team.

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