Two Teams Searching For A Win
After losing 103-93 to the Toronto Raptors, the New York Knicks look to redeem themselves at Madison Square Garden against the Phoenix Suns. The Knicks have been battling injuries and are coming home for the second night of this back-to-back. The Knicks are hopeful that All-Star forward Carmelo Anthony can play, as he missed the game versus the Raptors with soreness in his left knee last night. He is still a game-time decision but he hopes to play tonight. The Knicks are 0-6 when Anthony sits out. The Knicks will also be without rookie forward Kristaps Porzingis and guard Jose Calderon. The injuries could not come at a worst time for the Knickerbockers, but the Suns are also coming into this game with key injuries and on a losing streak of their own, as they’ve dropped their last two and eight of their last nine games.
Suns Without Starting Backcourt
The Suns will be without guard Brandon Knight, as well as guard Eric Bledsoe. Knight will be missing his fifth straight game with a strained groin. Bledsoe, who was having a career year averaging 20.4 points and 6.1 assists before suffering a torn meniscus and being ruled out for the season, will also not be on the court.
In the off-season the Suns re-signed Knight to a five-year, $70 million contract. Knight was also having a solid year averaging 19.7 points and 5.1 assists. Those two being out will be a factor in the outcome of tonight's game. The Suns will be expecting rookie and ex-Kentucky Wildcat Devin Booker to pick up the slack by continuing his solid play. Over the last ten games he’s averaged 17.1 points with the increased playing time due to injures.
Tyson Chandler Home Coming
American Gold-Medal winner, and former Knicks center Tyson Chandler is returning to the Garden for only the second time after being traded in June of 2014. Chandler was a fan favorite for his good play on the defensive side of the ball and was a good compliment to Carmelo Anthony’s offensive style of play. Chandler is not having a good year by his standards. He comes in averaging 5.6 points, 8.2 rebounds and just 0.6 blocks. All of those numbers are below his career averages and he will be looking to get going again.
Knicks Need Other Players Step-Up
The Knicks will need a big performance from guard Arron Afflalo. Afflalo usually steps up in these situations as he scored 20 points last night with Carmelo out. However, they will need a big performance from him and others as well, if they want to leave tonight with a win. Lance Thomas, Derrick Williams and Kyle O’Quinn will have to make an impact on the game. O’Quinn had a solid game last night with eight points and six rebounds, to go along with three assists, one steal and two blocks. The Knicks need another performance like that if they want to stop the losing skid.
Tip-off is set for 7:30 P.M. EST at Madison Square Garden.