The bench unit struggles as the Knicks sneak by the Timberwolves 103-99 at Madison Square Garden
Game Flow
The Knicks crept by the Wolves following their extended break due to the postponement of yesterday's scheduled game against San Antonio. While the Knicks' rust was apparent in the first half, the squad was able to pull out the win. It was evident they hadn't played in a while, as Minnesota certainly seemed to be the more aggressive team early. The Knicks didn't have their typical 2nd half struggles until the 4th quarter, in which they gave up a massive 21 point lead.
Almost every game, there's a quarter of Knicks basketball that makes you astonished this team is hovering right around .500. The 4th quarter was tough to watch this time around, with the squad scoring a whopping 4 points in the first 6 minutes of play. Even after they turned it on with a few minutes left in the game, it almost wasn't enough. Fortunately, Karl Anthony-Towns missed a bunny along the baseline, and some Burks free-throws put the game away.
Knicks Bright Spots
It seems like every time I write one of these recaps for Knicks Nation, it's always about RJ and Julius. Those two were catalysts for the team tonight as they both shot 50% from the field and poured in a combined 46 points. Randle also secured a team-high 14 rebounds to go along with 4 assists. RJ knocked down his only shot from downtown on the night.
Alec Burks hit some massive free-throws, knocking down 4 consecutive from the charity stripe with the game on the line. While his numbers on the night weren't jaw-dropping, Elfrid Payton had 7 assists and seemed to be looking for the open guy more often. For the second game in a row, the bench combo of Rose and Quickley struggled mightily. Though, at least the Knicks got the win.
Up Next
In the first home game with fans this year due to COVID, the Knicks will host the Warriors this coming Tuesday. 2000 lucky fans will have the chance to watch their beloved Knicks in person, which will continue with the homestand against the Kings and Pacers. With a win against the Warriors, the Knicks could not only stay in the thick of the playoff hunt but pull back to .500.