FREE…throw... FALL

…another Knicks loss

by Guichard Cadet

The Knicks continue to lose, and last night’s loss has to be the most frustrating. Yesterday, the three major local papers reported and gave a spin to accounts of Knicks players’ fighting spirits. This airing of differences came on the heels of two disparate road losses – a close one to the Los Angeles Clippers; and a blowout at the hands of the rejuvenated Denver Nuggets.

Throughout yesterday’s game against the Sacremento Kings, the team presented the evidence. They were not going down without a fight.

Nazr Mohammed was dunking whenever he was close to the basket. He also did not pick up two first quarter fouls, though he did get into foul trouble later. His effort and points were needed to negate Kings center Brad Miller.

Reactivated from the injured reserves list, Tim Thomas had a season high in scoring, with 23 points, and overall effort. His inside and outside game showed up, exemplifying why he is often seen as a possible marquee player.

Rounding out the Knicks’ attack, Stephon Marbury took over the third quarter, scoring 18 points. Even with Kings point guard battling him point for point, and assist for assist, Marbury’s play paced the Knicks to a double-digit lead well into the fourth quarter.

Then, the free fall begin at the free throw line, where the Knicks missed 10 shots in the fourth quarter, failing to close out the game. They eventually lost the game due to a miracle shot by Bibby, and two key errors by Anferne (Penny) Hardaway.

Though Penny stood out as the “goat” for last night’s lost, I am still wondering why Marbury did not take the last shot, and Jamal Crawford’s reluctance to shoot (only 8 shots, 6 of them three-pointers).

If last night’s game is any indication, then Herb Williams’ message has gotten through to the players. Having called a players-only meeting, the players seem ready to take on the onus to right the ship. Mohammed is playing smarter and more aggressive, and Crawford is playing under control.

It would be unfortunate if Crawford thinks playing “team ball” means he can’t look for his shot. Overall, the Knicks look ready to end the free fall, even with tonight’s opponent being the Phoenix Suns.