Knicks Playing Hard

The New York Knicks are coming off a 114-98 road loss against the Boston Celtics in their most recent game. The team was able to shoot pretty well as they finished 33-of-79 (41.8 percent) from the field, 15-of-35 (42.9 percent) from beyond the arc and attempted 24 free-throws. Point guard Jalen Brunson was imposing his will on the game as he finished with 26 points, three rebounds, four assists and a steal in 39 minutes on the court. Their defense was struggling though as the Celtics were able to shoot 50.6 percent from the floor, 44.2 percent from three and attempt 16 free throws. They need to defend better if they wan to be considered with the top of the Eastern Conference.

The New York Knicks have to figure out how to score more consistently as they are 28th in the NBA and 14th in the East with just 108.4 points per game scored. They have been an outstanding defensive team though as they are second in the NBA with 104.3 points per game given up. 

Hawks Flying High

The Atlanta Hawks are playing incredibly well this year and are coming off a 126-120 road win over the Detroit Pistons. The Hawks had a great offensive game as they finished shooting 45-of-87 (51.7 percent) from the floor, 12-of-33 (36.4 percent) from distance and 26 free-throw attempts. Shooting guard Dejounte Murray led the offense in this game as in 37 minutes he had 32 points, five rebounds, 10 assists, and three steals. Their defense struggled though as Detroit went 47-of-90 (52.2 percent) overall, 10-of-29 (34.5 percent) from beyond the arc and 23 free-throws. Atlanta forced 17 turnovers in the game and that will definitely help going forward.

The Atlanta Hawks have been one of the best offensive teams as they are fourth in the NBA with 120.3 points per game thus far. However, their defense needs to show some improvement as they are giving up 117.0 points, which is 23rd in the association thus far.