The Memphis Grizzlies defeated the New York Knicks 98-93. After having an 18 point lead, the Grizzlies allowed the Knicks to get back into the game. The Knicks really fought hard to get back into this game, but like the season, they came up short.
The Grizzlies played a very smooth game. They were able to get everyone involved and that in the end would be the biggest factor in tonight’s win.
Mike Miller was simply unstoppable. The Knicks left him open time and time again and he made them pay. He would score a season high 19 points as he connected on five three-pointers. Miller has been a vital piece to the Miami Heat over the last few years, but his role in Memphis is the same, come in the game and score. Tonight he scored and really gave the Grizzlies a nice punch off the bench.
After missing six games with a right ankle sprain, Mike Conley came back and played very well for Memphis. Conley scored 22 points in his return, making ten free throws as well.
The team effort from Memphis tonight was a major influence in tonight’s win. They were able to get contributions from their bench and role players. Nick Calathes and Tayshaun Prince were contributors as they added a combined 21 points. Both had moments in this game. Calathes especially was influential tonight as he played a very strong game off the bench. He took advantage of poor defense and really used his quickness to get into the paint.
For the Knicks, their lack of consistency tonight came back to haunt them. They fell behind and couldn’t quite get the win tonight. These games continue to push them further back in the standings, making games like tonight very tough to lose.
Tim Hardaway Jr was huge off the bench tonight. His scoring was at a high as he scored 23 points in 24 minutes. His defense early in the game was questionable, but overall he was able to get the Knicks back into the game with red hot offense. His scoring is very important for the Knicks. Tonight he was able to get great looks and capitalized on them. With Shumpert really struggling, his minutes may increase only if he can start playing better on defense. Tonight his performance was huge in getting the Knicks back into the game and also keeping the game close.
The Knicks early struggles, particularly at the point guard spot really came back to bite them. They allowed the opposing point guards to have a field day inside and out. That area has been an issue for New York all season and tonight it continued.
Facing the New Orleans Pelicans tomorrow night, the Knicks have to win tomorrow night. Carmelo Anthony looked really disappointed tonight. The losing is starting to really wear thin on him. Anthony did all he could tonight as he scored 22 points and grabbed 11 rebounds. His play has been their for New York. It’s just coming down to the small things that New York fails to do.
Photo Credit: AP Photo/Lance Murphey
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