New York Knicks: Five Keys To Defeating The Orlando Magic

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Dec 22, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks center Kyle O’Quinn (9) dunks over Orlando Magic shooting guard Evan Fournier (10) during the fourth quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

The New York Knicks will look to snap a four-game losing streak on Monday, January 2. What must New York do to defeat the Orlando Magic?

For the second time in two weeks, the New York Knicks will do battle with the Orlando Magic at Madison Square Garden. It projects to be one of the most vital games of the 2016-17 NBA regular season, as well as a test of New York’s strength and character.

With a record below .500 at the beginning of the new year, Jeff Hornacek and the Knicks will be as close to must-win territory as imaginable on January 2.

The Knicks enter their first game of 2017 at 16-17 and in the midst of a four-game losing streak. All four losses have been relatively close games, including two heartbreaking finishes and a third being a shorthanded loss to the Houston Rockets.

The good news for New York is that the last time it managed to secure a victory was the last time it played the Magic.

New York has moved beyond the stage of being hopeful for a victory and entered the territory of near desperation. Falling below .500 was tough enough, but dropping two games below it as the All-Star Break nears would be insufferable.

The question is: what will be the keys to victory as New York pursues its 17th win of the season and an even .500 record?

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