Knicks Archives - All Sports Everything

10 random thoughts about the New York Knicks as they face elimination

May 15, 2013 by Shana Renee Leave a Comment

photo via AP

Last night was ugly. After the Knicks game, I wanted nothing to do with anyone. Truth be told, I still don’t. But since writing tends to be therapeutic at times, I decided to write a quick blog with random thoughts and questions about the New York Knicks. They’re not in any particular order. My mind doesn’t work like that, lol. Instead, it’s just a brain dump or rambling list of things that have pissed me all the way off about this series.

Let’s dive in.

No. 1

If I had 3 seconds with Mike Woodson, I’d ask, ‘Why doesn’t Chris Copeland get more minutes?’ Because he’s lax on defense? I’m not buying that. Copeland’s contributions in other areas of the game i.e. offense and his willingness/ability to take a charge cannot be overlooked. When he gets minutes, he’s never not efficient. For the second straight game, he came in and knocked down a three. He’s the one player on the team that always manages to be productive regardless of how long he’s been on the bench. With JR Smith hungover from spending late nights with Rihanna, Carmelo desperately needs help on the offensive end. Cope can be that dude. He gets buckets. Give Cope a chance. It’s never a regrettable move. Ever.

No. 2

What happened to Pablo Prigioni? Why did he only log three minutes? Call me crazy, but when Pablo’s on the floor, good things happen. The ball movement is there and dudes get better shots. I don’t understand Woodson’s logic in “rewarding” Jason Kidd with playing time when he’s playing so poorly. Prigioni also has amazing instincts defensively. He should not be buried on the bench behind Jason Kidd who hasn’t scored in three weeks…eight games…384 minutes! Have you seen his game log lately? If you didn’t know any better, and looked strictly at his points column, you’d assume he received a DNP. That’s how terrible he’s been. Offensively, Pablo isn’t pouring on the points either, but at least he’s not afraid to shoot! When Kidd gets the ball, and has an open look, he passes it off quicker than someone playing a game of hot potato (did I just show my age with that reference?). Considering the Knicks are losing the battle of the boards, we need to rely on other ways to create first and second opportunities. Coming up with steals is a viable option, especially given Prigioni’s quickness. Having him on the bench for 45 minutes was a bad Coach’s decision.

No. 3

Speaking of steals, Shump should never ever sit on the bench for as long as he did last night. I don’t care if he was 0-6. During this series, he’s been our best player. Certainly the most consistent. If his knee wasn’t an issue, he should’ve been on the floor. Period.

No. 4

Why hasn’t Woodson been more critical of the referees? It’s clear the refs have a vendetta against the Knicks. They have all season. The players are visibly frustrated on the court because of all of the bullshit calls made against them. Last night, the Pacers had 30 attempts from the stripe compared to the Knicks’ 14. Melo, a superstar, only had 5 FT attempts. During the series, the Pacers have had 25 more free throw attempts than the Knicks (97 – 72). What part of the game is that? I think the most frustrating part about watching the refs make and miss calls is the blatancy. While watching the game at home, I’m ready to throw bows, so I can’t imagine how the players must feel. Keeping your emotions in check is necessary, but I also know it’s a lot easier said than done. Long before last night, Woodson should have taken one for the team, and eaten the fine that Daddy Warbucks Dolan would probably pay anyway. If nothing becomes of it, at least the players and fans know he acknowledged the situation. Speak up!

No. 5

For the record, I’m not a Steve Novak fan. He’s had his moments but lately he’s been a huge disappointment. And for someone with a game as one dimensional as Novak’s, if he’s not knocking down shots, then he’s rendered just as useful as I’d be if I were part of the rotation. However, when nothing else works and the season is on the line, throw (almost) everything against the wall and see if it sticks. And in this case, I would lobby for Novak to get more minutes. For a good portion of the game, the Knicks were within striking distance and a three here or there would’ve gotten them right back in the game. Let’s face it, the Knicks have been struggling offensively. Novak has the ability to be deadly from the three, but it’s impossible to know if he can contribute anything if he’s not given a shot.

No. 6

I get it. Amar’e Stouedmire is more fragile than the leg lamp from A Christmas Story. And defensively, he gets manhandled like a blowup doll. The Pacers have no respect for STAT’s poor excuse for defense. But check this out, since his return on Saturday, he’s looked solid offensively. He’s moving well, playing physical, getting to the basket, and grabbing rebounds. We need all of that. I understand why the Knicks are monitoring his minutes, but right now the Knicks are only guaranteed 48 more minutes this season. I say kick more minutes Amar’e's way, especially since JR Smith isn’t carrying the second unit like we’re used to. If Melo is going to rest, let Amar’e lead. It’s do or die and he’s the $100 million man, let him earn his check for once.

No. 7

Who the hell does Tyson Chandler think he is to criticize the Knicks offense? His barely there defense this series has done nothing but magnify his nonexistent offensive game, especially considering how Roy Hibbert and Paul George have been killing the Knicks on both ends of the court. Before putting up a double-double last night, 12 points, 10 rebounds, he grabbed 3, 4, and 5 rebounds in Games 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Pathetic and inexcusable for someone his size. And generally speaking, he can’t even knock down a 10 ft. jumper. His game has been less than A+ and he’s in no position to come at anyone.

No. 8

Why’d it take JR so long to start driving to the basket again? When Melo was injured and JR carried the team, it wasn’t because of his three point game, it was because he penetrated (pun intended) to the hole. Once he made that adjustment last night, he started to cook. It was a little too late, but maybe/hopefully it’ll give him the confidence he needs going into Game 5. If JR goes out like this, he can kiss that huge payday goodbye.

No. 9

Should Mike Woodson be worried about job security? During the season, I would’ve Johnny Cochran’d anyone who didn’t agree that Woodson should receive Coach of the Year honors. I’m not saying he was the only rightful contender, but he definitely deserved to be in the conversation and by the time I was done with you, I would’ve made you a believer. But now, I can’t even convince myself that he’s worthy. His rotations have been baffling, inexplicable, and indefensible. In a must-win situation, he pulled all the wrong strings. Exhibit A: The Knicks are struggling to score, but he thinks a rotation of Chandler, Kidd, JR, and K. Mart at the same damn time will provide that offensive spark we need. It’s insane. The expectations for the Knicks to advance to the Eastern Conference finals were high. If they are eliminated by the Pacers, 4-1, could Woodson possibly get PJ Carlisimo’d out of NYC? Because my emotions are high and he has a reputation for coaching teams that choke in the playoffs, I would argue that it should be a consideration. But then reality sets in and I think the only coach I would want in New York is Phil Jackson and he said he’s done with coaching, so…*sigh*.

No. 10

Rasheed Wallace, you are truly and deeply missed. Not only could you have given our bench depth, but your intangibles such as toughness and intimidation are invaluable and desperately needed against the Pacers.

I know I can’t be the only Knicks or NBA fan with these thoughts. If you agree, disagree, have your own random thoughts about this series, leave a comment below.

-@sdotrenee

Filed Under: Featured, NBA, Pro Sports Tagged With: Carmelo Anthony, Indiana Pacers, Jason Kidd, Knicks, knickstape, mike woodson, NBA, NBA Playoffs, Pablo Prigioni, Roy Hibbert, Steve Novak, Tyson Chandler

WATCH! J.R. Smith Top 10 Plays of the Year and More!

April 23, 2013 by Shana Renee Leave a Comment

photo via New York Knicks

I know I’m a day late, but the flu knocked me out of the game the past few days. I could barely stand for five seconds without feeling like I stepped in a ring with Muhammad Ali. But I’m slowly on the mend and couldn’t live with myself if I didn’t at least attempt to channel my low low energy into a blog update paying respect to this year’s NBA Sixth Man of the Year, Earl Joseph Smith III aka J.R. Smith.

Yesterday, the NBA formally blew the lid off the second worst kept secret (LeBron winning MVP is the first) and awarded the Knicks guard with the well-deserved award. The NBA also complied a video of Smith’s Top 10 plays from the regular season in which he averaged 18.1 points, second-best on the team behind Carmelo Anthony, 5.3 rebounds and 2.7 assists in 33.5 minutes per game. He also shot 42.2% from the field and 35.6% on three-pointers. I’ve posted the video below, but felt it didn’t do Smith justice so I posted another, more diverse reel that better showcases all of Smith’s abilities — acrobatic drives to the basket, ball handling skills, breaking down defenders, ferocious dunks, lighting it up from beyond the three point line and soooo much more heat.

Culling Smith’s top moments to 10 was a difficult task for the NBA, I’m sure. But after reviewing both videos, I decided my two favorite plays from Smith include the nasty behind-the-back cross-over into a step back jumper over Thabo Sefolosha and one of many Pablo Prigioni to Smith connections. Specifically, the play that continues to blow my mind came against the 76ers. After a typical Prigioni steal, the 6ers responded with a double team. As Prigioni drove to the basket, he dished it off to Smith who trailed so far behind that he wasn’t even visible in the camera frame, yet Smith swooped in, seemingly out of nowhere, and finished the play with a right-handed jam!

No matter how many times I see that play, I always react with my best John Starks impression and ask, “did this dude just did this?”

Indeed he did. Indeed he did. Congrats, JR Swish!

-@sdotrenee

Filed Under: Featured, Must Read, NBA, Pro Sports Tagged With: John Starks, JR Smith, JR Smith Top 10 Plays, Knicks, knickstape, NBA, New York Knicks, Sixth Man of the Year

Before Tip-Off: New York Knicks vs Memphis Grizzlies

March 27, 2013 by Shana Renee Leave a Comment

photo via thebasketballmachine.blogspot.com

WHO:

Knicks (43-26) vs Grizzlies (47-23)

WHEN:

730PM/ET on MSG

W2W4:

The Knicks went into Boston and handled business from tip-off until the final buzzer sounded. Their defense was A+. They forced 20 turnovers that led to 17 points. But the most impressive play came from Carmelo Anthony and J.R. Smith. The two of them combined for 61 of the Knicks 100 points. It’s safe to say, at this point, the Knicks have reclaimed some of the mojo that fueled their 18-5 start of the season, especially with Smith’s new commitment to driving to the hole versus settling for terrible, terrible shots. Amazingly, Smith didn’t take his first three-pointer until the second half of last night’s game. This ain’t the same ol’ Smith, boys and girls. And the Knicks are better because of it. One can only hope that Smith and the rest of the team will continue to play this aggressively as there’s no relief in sight.

Tonight, they face another tough test when the Memphis Grizzlies pay the Garden a visit. As luck would have it, the Knicks catch another break because the Grizzlies are still without their bigman, Marc Gasol. But with or without Gasol, the Grizzlies have acquired a team identity of playing physical. And unfortunately for the Knicks, they’ve sometimes allowed their emotions get the best of them when referees appear to show favoritism toward their opponents. In order to stay competitive tonight, the Knicks must keep their emotions in check and not pick up unnecessary technical fouls. When the Grizzlies and Knicks met in November, six technical fouls were doled out between the two teams. As Tyson Chandler continues to recover from his neck injury, Kenyon Martin will most likely be tasked with keeping Zach Randolph in line. Expect the physicality of those two to be on.

PREDICTION:

Although the Grizzlies may have a bit of a chip on their shoulders after allowing John Wall to drop 47 on them Monday night, I don’t think it’ll be enough to cool off the Knicks. Knicks win.

NEXT GAME:

NY Knicks vs Charlotte Bobcats: Friday @ 730PM/ET, MSG

Filed Under: Before Tip-Off, Featured, NBA, Pro Sports Tagged With: Before Tip-Off, Carmelo Anthony, Grizzlies, J. R. Smith, Knicks, Memphis Grizzlies, NBA, New York Knicks

Before Tip-Off: New York Knicks @ Boston Celtics

March 26, 2013 by Shana Renee Leave a Comment

photo via getty

WHO:

Knicks (42-26) @ Celtics (36-33)

WHEN:

7PM/ET on TNT

W2W4:

Tonight, the Knicks are in Beantown facing a Kevin Garnett and Rajon Rondo-less Celtics team. Meanwhile, the Knicks still have their own injury woes to contend with. Word is, Tyson Chandler will likely miss tonight’s game despite participating in the team’s shootaround this morning. Yet, regardless of each team’s short-handedness, both need this win badly. The Celtics are on a four game skid, while the Knicks are looking to extend their win streak to five. Tonight’s game is particularly important for the Knicks because it kicks off another tough stretch. Seven of their next eight games are against playoff contenders. Over the next couple of weeks, the Knicks will face Boston twice, Miami, Oklahoma City, Atlanta, Milwaukee and Memphis.

Additionally, the Brooklyn Nets continue to nip at the heels of the Knicks and are just two games back. To gain further separation from the Nets, the Knicks must wrack up as many wins as possible. With Carmelo Anthony looking like his old self again and Kenyon Martin proving he’s more than an adequate replacement for Tyson Chandler, the Knicks have been impressive of late. In the Knicks’ four-game winning streak, Martin has averaged 14.3 points and 7.5 rebounds and has hit 75 percent of his shots. And of course, Martin’s defensive energy has positively infected the team. According to ESPN.com, “When Martin is on the floor, the Knicks are giving up 99.5 points per 100 possessions, which would rank fifth in the NBA. When he’s off the floor, they’re giving up 103.3, which would put them 17th.” This is the kind of habit building behavior the Knicks must exhibit as the playoffs approach.

Proven by the tight standings, the Eastern Conference playoff seedings are still up for grabs. With 14 games remaining on the Knicks calendar, only 6.5 games separate them from the No. 7 seed Celtics.

Just because two of the Celtics “Big 3″ are injured, the Knicks cannot expect to steamroll the Celtics. Doc Rivers remains one of the best coaches in the league, and Paul Pierce has enough venom to destroy the Knicks. In his past 13 games against the Knicks, Pierce is averaging 27.8 points per game on 52.9 percent shooting. And he’s killed us beyond the arc, shooting 49 percent. Iman Shumpert’s perimeter defense will be key in slowing Pierce and the Celtics down, and allowing the Knicks to get solid open looks on the offensive end.

PREDICTION:

Per usual, it’ll feel like a playoff game, but when the final buzzer sounds, the Knicks will have done enough to keep their streak alive. Knicks win.

NEXT GAME:

NY Knicks vs Memphis Grizzlies @ 730PM/ET, MSG

-@sdotrenee

Filed Under: Before Tip-Off, Featured, NBA, Pro Sports Tagged With: Boston Celtics, Carmelo Anthony, Celtics, Doc Rivers, Eastern Conference, Kevin Garnett, Knicks, Knicks vs Celtics Preview, NBA, New York Knicks, Tyson Chandler

Before Tip-Off: New York Knicks vs Orlando Magic (3.20.13)

March 20, 2013 by Shana Renee 2 Comments

knicks vs magic

WHO:

Knicks (39-26) vs Magic (18-50)

WHEN:

730PM/ET on MSG

W2W4:

After a dreadful West Coast road trip, in which the Knicks dropped as many bodies as games, they managed to avoid a sweep by scoring a win against the Utah Jazz. But it wasn’t all good. After one helluva performance against the Jazz, the warrior that is Kurt Thomas reportedly has a stress fracture in his right foot and will miss 2-4 weeks. Also, Tyson Chandler’s neck injury was diagnosed as a neck strain. He’s expected to miss another week. So if you’re keeping track, including Amar’e Stoudemire and Rasheed Wallace, that’s three seven-footers, and Thomas who plays with the fearlessness of a seven-footer, missing crucial time. Marcus Camby is technically available but I feel like he’s one false move away from being added to the sick and the shut in list. Coach Mike Woodson needs to continue to monitor his playing time, especially if we may not have Thomas, STAT, or Wallace for the playoffs. While he’s shown his age, 38, the majority of the season, against the Portland Trailblazers, he surprisingly proved that he’s not completely a shell of his former self. But not expecting him to contribute too much will be key to keeping him “healthy” down the stretch.

Now for the good news.

Melo’s back and optimistic that his injury won’t be an issue. Although the Knicks tried to avoid draining the knee, that was the best call. While Melo is feeling good going into tonight’s game, expecting him to be 100% is unreasonable. It’s been almost two weeks since he’s been dealing with his bizzare fluid in the knee turned hamstring injury. It’ll take some time for him to get comfortable again. Until his shot is back for good, the Knicks must continue to rely on Chris Copeland and Kenyon Martin. Offensively, Copeland has answered when called upon. Over the last five games, he’s averaged 11.6 points and 4.6 rebounds in 23 minutes. And K-Mart continues to do exactly what’s required, pose a threat around the perimeter as well as in the paint. If he were able to do that while keeping his fouls to a minimum, we’d really be cooking. I also think with Melo back in the lineup, J.R. Smith can settle back into his old role of chucking up shots whenever he wants. While Melo was out, we needed Smith to be more of a facilitator because he was our number one scoring option, but that’s not his..um…strength?

Although some key players are still out, the Knicks are on the road to recovery. Having Melo back will make a huge difference. Everyone can return to doing what they’re most comfortable doing, whatever that may be.

As for the lottery bound Magic, there’s not much to see there, folks. They’re in a world of hurt since losing Dwight Howard and receiving hardly anything in return. But after playing the best of the west, a cellar dweller like the Magic is exactly the type of opponent the Knicks need to get their mojo back.

PREDICTION:

Melo will be back in the building and the team will feed off of his energy. Plus, the Magic are just a bad, bad team. Knicks win.

NEXT GAME:

Knicks @ Raptors, 7PM/ET on MSG

RANDOM:

Legendary DJ and producer Pete Rock is taking over the Knicks twitter handle tonight. This twitter takeover stunt has been hit or miss all season, but I have a good feeling about tonight. Maybe it’s because I already know what to expect since I follow Pete Rock on twitter and during Knicks games. In any event, follow the Knicks @nyknicks and me too, @sdotrenee.

Also, Patrick Ewing is joining the Knicks post-game broadcast team tonight.

It’s about time the Knicks threw Ewing a tasty bone, as opposed to a BS D-League coaching job. I’m one of those Knicks fans under the belief that until they stop acting cold toward Ewing, nothing good will happen for us. These are baby steps towards reversing the curse. This is good.

-@sdotrenee

Filed Under: Before Tip-Off, Featured, NBA, Pro Sports Tagged With: Before Tip-Off, Knicks, Knicks-Magic Pregame, Magic, NBA, New York Knicks, Orlando Magic

Before Tip-Off: New York Knicks @ Utah Jazz (3.18.13)

March 18, 2013 by Shana Renee Leave a Comment

Photo via Jason Szenes/New York Times

WHO:

Knicks (38-26) @ Jazz (34-32)

WHEN:

1030PM/ET on MSG, ESPN

W2W4:

Today, the Knicks released a few injury updates. According to ESPNNewYork.com, “Melo will miss his fifth game in the Knicks’ past seven with a right leg injury. Anthony also said that the fluid drained from his right leg late last week was not from a knee issue but one involving his hamstring. In addition to Anthony, center Tyson Chandler is questionable for Monday night’s game with a neck strain, and Kurt Thomas, who’s been starting in place of Chandler, is questionable with a sprained right foot. Thomas will have X-rays on his foot before the game.”

Say what now? I’m no doctor, but Melo had fluid drained from his knee, but the problem didn’t involve his knee? It involved his hamstring? And now Tyson Chandler has a neck strain? But he sat out the last couple of games due to a knee contusion? WTF is going on?! None of this makes any sense. It feels like the Jeremy Lin situation all over again. Remember, last season he was listed as day to day, and next thing we knew he was shut down for the remainder of the season. The Knicks are sooooo shady, man. Transparency is definitely not their specialty.

As for tonight’s game, considering the Knicks are no longer playing the dominant ball that led to a 29 point blowout in their last meeting with the Utah Jazz, I don’t have too many expectations. At this point, I just want the Knicks to get through the game injury-free and return home, ASAP. Once they’re back in their surroundings, hopefully they’ll be able to regain confidence, focus, and healthy bodies.

Yet, despite the horrible play over the past week, somehow the Knicks have managed to maintain a one game lead over the BK Nets and sole possession of first place in the Atlantic Division. The Knicks are 5-5 over their last 10 games, while the Nets aren’t much better at 4-6. Tonight the Nets kickoff an eight game road trip against the Detroit Pistons, followed by the Mavs, Clippers, Suns, Blazers, Nuggets, Jazz, and Cavs.

PREDICTION:

I’d love to think the Knicks could beat the struggling Jazz again, but it’s the last game of a miserable road trip and I doubt the Knicks have anything in the tank. Knicks lose.

NEXT GAME:

NY Knicks vs Orlando Magic @ 730PM/ET, MSG

Filed Under: Before Tip-Off, Featured, NBA, Pro Sports Tagged With: Amare Stoudemire, Jazz, Knicks, Knicks Jazz Preview, NBA, New York Knicks, Utah Jazz

Before Tip-Off: New York Knicks @ Los Angeles Clippers (3.17.13)

March 17, 2013 by Shana Renee Leave a Comment

photo via msg.com

WHO:

Knicks (38-25) @ Clippers (45-21)

WHEN:

330PM/ET, ABC

W2W4:

At this point, I just want this road trip to end. I knew it would be a challenging test for the Knicks, but I did not think they’d go winless, losing by 29, 23, and 15 points in their last three games.

With the Knicks matched up against the Clippers today, things will only get worse before they get better. The Clippers will take advantage of an extremely depleted Knicks roster, their lack of transition defense, and run them out of the Staples Center. There’s no need to sugarcoat it, or expect the unexpected. Truth is, it’s going to be brutal and extremely unpleasant to watch.

Expect the Clippers to do what they do, getting off all types of SportsCenter Top 10 worthy lobs against the Knicks. The Blake Griffin-Chris Paul show will be on 10 today. And what’s worse is they’re not the Knicks only problems. Last time the Knicks and Clippers met, Jamal Crawford became a Knicks killer, torching them for 27 points on 12-of-22 shooting. Meanwhile, JR Smith had an uncharacteristic 6 points on 1-of-9 shooting. If the Knicks stand a chance today, they will need Smith to redeem himself, especially with Tyson Chandler and Carmelo Anthony expected to sit this one out.

The injuries are tough to counter, but Mike Woodson has to adjust his game plan to suit the strengths of the guys that are available. And this is something he’s sucked at lately. Big time. Why he continues to be stubborn with Chris Copeland’s minutes is beyond me. Copeland is a liability on defense, but so is everyone else on the team. Woodson unfairly holds Copeland accountable for slacking on defense, but gives everyone else a pass. Without Melo and STAT, if given the chance, Copeland could become the team’s second best scoring option after JR Smith because of his ability to create his own shot.

Wait.

I just wept a little bit as I typed that because it speaks to the sad, sad state of the Knicks. Is forfeiting an option?

PREDICTION:

No Melo. No STAT. No Chandler. No defense. No win. Knicks lose.

NEXT GAME:

Knicks @ Jazz, 1030PM/ET on MSG

Filed Under: Before Tip-Off, Featured, NBA, Pro Sports Tagged With: Blake Griffin, Carmelo Anthony, Chris Paul, Clippers, Knicks, Knicks Cippers Preview, LA Clippers, Lob City, NBA, NY Knicks

Before Tip-Off: New York Knicks @ Denver Nuggets (3.12.13)

March 13, 2013 by Shana Renee Leave a Comment

Photo via BleacherReport.com

WHO:

New York Knicks (38-23) @ Denver Nuggets (43-22)

WHEN:

1030PM/ET on MSG, ESPN

W2W4:

I wish I had a small ounce of hope the Knicks would head to Denver, a place Carmelo Anthony, Marcus Camby, Raymond Felton, Kenyon Martin J.R. Smith, and James White used to call home, and prove they’re not dying a slow death like it appears. However, with Carmelo admittedly not 100%, there’s not much you could do to convince me otherwise. With a makeshift starting lineup that includes James White, coupled with an inconsistent bench that lives and dies by the three, it’s very difficult to know which Knicks team will show up. Winning and losing consecutive games by 29 points is not the type of identity crisis a team serious about making a successful playoff run should display this late in the season.

On the other hand, you have the Denver Nuggets who are sailing in the opposite direction of the Knicks. Save for the Miami Heat, the Nuggets are the hottest team in the league right now. They’re currently 28-3 at home, including a 13-game winning streak, and are also on a nine-game winning streak, overall. Like I said, hot! In addition to gelling at the right time, they’re an extremely fun team to watch. Led by their point guard Ty Lawson, the Nuggets have earned the reputation for owning the best transition game in the NBA. This is a nightmare for the Knicks because their transition defense is nonexistent, as evident by the 29-point blowout by the Golden State Warriors on Monday. With mounting injuries and aging bodies decomposing, run-n-gun teams are mercilessly exposing the Knicks’ weaknesses.

If an injured Melo is hellbent on playing, he must put forth better effort than his Monday night attempt. It was obvious within the very early minutes of the game that Melo was playing in discomfort. As the game continued, there were certain moments when he barely applied pressure to his leg. Quite frankly, it was painful to watch. As I looked on, I begged for Mike Woodson to remove Melo from the game because it appeared his presence on the court was definitely hurting the cause, as oppose to helping it. If ever there was a time to employ the addition by subtraction logic, that was it. There are instances when it makes sense to go with a less talented, yet healthier, player. When Melo is on the court, the team naturally looks for him to provide the spark on offense. However, he was just extremely flat, as was our number two scoring option JR Smith; and the offense suffered for it. They never established a rhythm, which is a recipe for disaster when you’re playing a quick tempoed team such as the Golden State Warriors or as we’ll see tonight, the Denver Nuggets.

PREDICTION:

Considering the history between the two teams and proving they can bounce back from Monday’s demoralizing loss, the Knicks have more than enough reasons to be motivated to win tonight’s game. However, I still think they lose.

NEXT GAME:

Knicks @ Blazers, 1030PM/ET on TNT

-@sdotrenee

Filed Under: Before Tip-Off, Featured, NBA, Pro Sports Tagged With: Before Tip-Off, Carmelo Anthony, Denver Nuggets, Knicks, Knicks/Nuggets Preview, NBA, Nuggets, NY Knicks

Before Tip-Off: New York Knicks @ Golden State Warriors (3.11.13)

March 11, 2013 by Shana Renee Leave a Comment

Photo via KnicksNow.com

WHO:

New York Knicks (38-22) @ Golden State Warriors (35-29)

WHEN:

1030PM/ET on MSG

W2W4:

None of us need to be reminded what happened the last time these two teams faced off. Stephen Curry blew the roof off The Garden, scoring 54 points off 11-out-of-13 three pointers. Yet, as beautiful as his individual shooting performance was, the Warriors took an ‘L’ that night, losing 109-105. When it counted, the Knicks finally cuffed Curry. Raymond Felton, who’s struggled defending the league’s quicker guards all season, came up with some much needed stops in the final minutes. Although Curry has cooled off a lot since lighting MSG up a couple of weeks ago, he’s currently only shooting 39.8 percent and averaging 17.7 points on 36 percent in his last three games, Felton and Curry will be back at it. Curry will have his moments, but overall, I don’t expect him to put on another show.

During their last meeting, the Knicks were also boosted by Tyson Chandler’s 28 rebounds, a career-high for the reigning Defensive Playof of the Year. Without David Lee, the NBA’s current double-double leader, battling him on the boards, Chandler was able to dominate. But tonight will be a different story. Although Lee missed Saturday’s game with a right knee contusion, he’s expected to be fired up and ready to go against his former team. The addition of Lee definitely gives the Warriors some much needed depth, but the signing of Kenyon Martin is also a game changer for the Knicks. This will be one matchup to watch. K-Mart provides the Knicks with versatility on both sides of the ball. Defensively, Martin is intense and quick enough to defend the pick-n-roll. And, offensively, the Knicks can look for Martin to score in the paint and pick up the slack in STAT’s absence.

Also, don’t be surprised if Chris Copeland finally gets a chance to earn his pay. When called upon on Saturday against the Utah Jazz, Copeland responded with 12 points (4-6), in seven minutes. Granted it was garbage time, he made the most of his minutes and capitalized off of the Utah Jazz’s deficiencies like the vets were able to do. When given the opportunity, Cope’s done that all season, and it looks like he may finally get rewarded for it. After Saturday’s game, Coach Woodson praised Copeland and said he may have earned himself some valuable playing time in the near future. With banged up bodies and a tough schedule ahead, Coach should look for Copeland starting tonight. While he won’t contribute much defensively, he’s able to create his own shot, and that’s more than you can say for Steve Novak.

Stakes are high for both teams. The Warriors have lost 12 of 17, and dropped their last two games at home. That’s the first time that’s happened all season. At some point I expect the Warriors to turn things around, but I think they’ll have to wait at least one more game to get their mojo back, especially if Melo makes his return tonight as expected.

PREDICTION:

While jet lag could cause the Knicks to get off to a slow start, I think they’ll turn it around by the second half. Knicks win.

NEXT GAME:

Wednesday, March 13: Knicks @ Nuggets 1030PM/ET on MSG

-@sdotrenee

Filed Under: Before Tip-Off, Featured, NBA, Pro Sports Tagged With: Golden State Warriors, Knicks, Mark Jackson, NBA, New York Knicks, Stephen Curry, Tyson Chandler

Why I Love Sports…From A to Z!

February 14, 2013 by Shana Renee 1 Comment

In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, I thought it was only right that I pour my heart out and gush about my first true love, sports. Here are the reasons I love sports…from A to Z.

Athletes- Without you, I’d have nothing. Seriously.

Buzzer Beaters- This is a gift and a curse, but regardless of whether my team is on the winning or losing side, I always marvel in disbelief and think what a ride!

Clutch Gene- Hitting a base hit to extend the inning, leading a game-winning drive with less than two minutes remaining, hitting the game-winning shot, or knocking down a pair of free throws, it doesn’t matter the form. Across all sports, on every level, nothing tops witnessing an athlete in possession of a dominant clutch gene do work, especially when their team needs it most. When they switch into beast mode and takeover, it’s next level amazing.

Debates- Nothing is off limits because the master manipulator that I am will trap you into a circular discussion that has no finish line. And when you’re part of a family who debates every. single. thing, you become extremely good at it. Even if by chance I’m proven wrong, which happens exactly never, but hypothetically speaking, I’d stand my ground like the true champion I am. Test me.

ESPN Highlights- I was raised on Romper Room, The Cosby Show, and ESPN Highlights. But being content watching the same ESPN highlights back to back for hours without interruption is the epitome of living the dream…unless my team lost in the playoffs or championship. Because if that’s the case then it’s the epitome of living a nightmare. And at that point, ESPN ceases to exist in my universe. I’m off that for a week…at least.

Food and Beer- Having a legit excuse to unapologetically and publicly over indulge in terrible, greasy artery clogging food and multiple rounds of beer is a major win.

Gus Johnson- If you mic’d me up in a booth and let me loose, I could only hope the undying passion I have for the game would be as illuminating as it is when Gus is making the calls. In a time when TV personalities are so caught up with appearing fair and balanced, it’s relieving to see a pro like Gus go apeshit over a remarkable game-winning play. He’s a god.

Hi-Fiving- The discomfort caused by having my personal space invaded by strangers is no longer a concern when I’m taking in the action live or at a bar. Locking eyes with a stranger who shares my team affiliation is the fastest way to win me over and remedy my germophobia. It’s also the only time I’ll openly engage in the otherwise uncool social expression of hi-fiving. With every base hit, clutch free throw, or first down, I’m spreading love one hi-five at a time.

Iverson- Cornrows, crossover, rebellious attitude, dripped in diamonds and completely swagged out in jerseys and oversized jeans. That’s the Iverson I’ve loved since his Hoya days. And anything the tabloids report about him these days is rubbish. Miss me with all of it.

~~Jets~~ Jordan- The Jets vs Jordan? Not even close. Despite MJ repeatedly ripping my heart out as a child, and shrugging it off like it was nothing, I appreciate and respect everything he’s done for the game — sports, basketball, and our culture. He set the bar, eclipsed it, and set it again. Salute to His Airness.

Knicks- The extreme highs and lows we’ve experienced together taught me what it means to love unconditionally. I’m your ride or die chick. Believe that.

Lionel Messi- ESPN taught me. I shed my American ignorance of the beautiful game in 2009 when I worked on ESPN’s World Cup campaign. While the media focused on Christiano Ronaldo, true futbol heads put me on to Messi and I’ve been obsessed with watching him play ever since. His agility, explosiveness, passing ability, and dominance are everything. If brilliance was a verb, the definition would be Messi.

March Madness- Duh.

Ninth-Inning Rallies- But only when it’s my team doing the rallying. Otherwise it sucks.

Olympics- The world’s most elite athletes unite on the grandest stage to compete all in the name of national pride. And we get to watch. What’s not to love?

Pro Football- Quarterbacks. Offense. Defense. Special Teams. NY Jets. Sacks. Hail Marys. The Build Up. Overtime. Rivalries. Super Bowl. NFL Redzone. Competition. The Hits. Sunday Rituals. Thanksgiving. Touchdowns. Fantasy Football. Pick 6s. Touchdown Celebrations. And probably a million more.

Quest for Championships- Because at the end of the day, that’s why players play and fans watch them play.

Rivalries- Yankees vs Red Sox. Cowboys vs Redskins. OSU vs UM. Duke vs NC. Auburn vs Bama. Lakers vs Celtics. Federer vs Nadal. Tennessee vs UCONN. Real Madrid vs Barcelona. Bears vs Packers. The emotions and memories conjured up at the thought of these matchups caused heart palpitations. Did you feel it too?

Streaking and Slumping- Sports is a game of numbers and recordkeeping. In order to deliver on that, streaking and slumping is necessary to raise the level of competition and prove the game is evolving as athletes continue to do what’s never been done before. The good and the bad. Whether you suck like the Charlotte Bobcats or go on a tear like Lebron James, the games needs it all.

The Dunk- Even though Starks and I beefed for years after his dreadful 2-for-18 shooting performance of Game 7 in the NBA Finals against the Houston Rockets, The Dunk is still one of my favorite sports moments EVER!

Underdogs and Upsets- Because you never see it coming. When powerhouses are dropped by underdogs, we all take an unexpected trip to bizzaro world. Up is down. Down is up. In is Out. Black is White. And as crazy as everything appears, I relish in the opportunity to return often because taking a chance on the underdog and watching them actually succeed is pretty awesome.

Vertical Leaps- Yep, I’m reaching here. Get it? Vertical leap…Reach. Dunking is an art. Getting enough elevation off the ground, momentum to finish strong, and a solid grip on the ball is way too much hand eye coordination for me to fathom. How do these dudes do it?

Winning- When I feel the world around me is crumbling, but my team is winning, suddenly everything else seems less important or at least more manageable. Winning. Life’s Elixir.

Xs and Os- Talent is important, but having a coach who understands the fundamentals of the game is priceless. And having one who doesn’t is torture. And when matched up against each other, it’s a beautiful mess.

Yankees- Kiss the rings. All 27 of them.

Zone- Not as in Zone defense or endZone, but more like “Don’t let me get in my zone. Don’t let me get in my zone.” The pure passion, focus, killer instinct, determination, and can’t be stopped(ness) really gets me going!

These are some of the reasons I love sports. But enough about me, I want to hear from you. Join the lovefest and share the reasons you love sports below. There’s nothing worse than being on the receiving end of unrequited love. So I beg of you, on Valentine’s Day, please don’t be that guy or gal.

-@sdotrenee

Filed Under: Fashion, Featured, MLB, NBA, NFL, Olympics, Pro Sports, Soccer, Tennis Tagged With: American football, ESPN, Gus Johnson, Jets, Knicks, Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, Lionel Messi, Michael Jordan, MLB, NBA, NFL, Valentine's Day, Why I love sports from A to Z, Yankees