Knicks Game Summary: Knicks Lose to Raptors 113-111

BOXSCORE

In what was the very first showing of new things to come, the Knicks came up short with a familiar result. There were definitely bright signs early on in the game and the Knicks proved that they could consistently score throughout. Lineups were mixed and matched as D'Antoni used 10 different players for at least five minutes a piece. Last night might have been the most unorganized 111 points scored I have ever seen. In the first half the Knicks had under 5 turnovers but finished the game having committed 20. The Knicks began to struggle in the 2nd half when they had possessions in which scoring was crucial. When they needed a basket they simply did not know whom to get it from. These are problems that plagued them last year, but there seems to be one main difference; the teams attitude.

"Everybody is really positive, really upbeat," said guard Jamal Crawford,"It's just a fresh change for everybody. Everybody is tired of what's happened in the past. Everybody is tired of what's happened the last three or four years and it's time to break the mold."

As I said earlier, the Knicks scored 111 points despite their horrendous three-point shooting. Long-range shooting was a huge aspect in the success to D'Antoni's Suns' teams but he will not find that sort of strength here in New York. With Allan Houston only being a relic of his old self, there is really no other consistent shooter on the roster, such as a Steve Nash or a Raja Bell. Last night was proof, the Knicks shot a dismal 23% from downtown (8-34). We can expect the three-point attempts to go up from last year but 34 is a bit crazy. The Knicks played without Eddy Curry and Allan Houston last night so that could have something to do with the settling for outside shots as well as the low percentage.

"I didn't know what we would have," D'Antoni said. "I thought they competed and did a lot of things we were trying to do all week (in training camp). I was pleasantly surprised. If we keep playing like that, we'll be OK."

In more positive news, David Lee looked great as it's evident that he has really worked hard on his offensive game. Lee had 22 points and 9 rebounds in 30 minutes last night, and was extremely efficient shooting 9-13 from the floor. Randolph led the Knicks in boards, grabbing 13 of them while scoring 19 points and for some odd reason he attempted four three-pointers.

"Like coach said, anybody can play in this system," Randolph said. "If Shaq can play in this system, anybody can play in this system. It's about playing basketball and making smart decisions."

Chris Duhon was not impressive at all. Despite a nice effort on the glass (10 rebounds), he was unable to get any kind of flow in the game going. He dished out 6 assists but had a disgusting 7 turnovers in 31 minutes. Marbury came off the bench and played 22 minutes but had no real effect on the game, he scored 10 points and looks as if he is in great physical condition, but I am sure he will be starting this year.

The next game will be at Philadelphia on Friday 7pm EST on MSG II