Knicks Preview: 5 Keys to Defeating Washington Wizards

Oct 29, 2015; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) reacts against the Atlanta Hawks during the second half of an NBA basketball game at Madison Square Garden. The Hawks defeated the Knicks 112-101. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports

2. Make Open Shots

This may seem like an obvious point to make, but it’s been a major issue for the New York Knicks. When given the chance to convert open looks, New York has been startlingly erratic.

That cannot happen against John Wall and the Washington Wizards.

Washington isn’t the most explosive offensive team, but Wall and Bradley Beal can make New York pay for its misses. Whether Wall’s pushing the pace or Beal’s spotting up, that duo ranks amongst the best backcourts in the NBA.

One-on-one, New York lacks the personnel to match them play-for-play, which means the team needs to take advantage of its opportunities.

According to NBA.com, the Knicks were 14-of-35 on uncontested field goals at the Milwaukee Bucks—a mark of 40.0 percent. New York followed that up by shooting 15-of-45 on uncontested attempts against hte Atlanta Hawks, per NBA.com.

Neither of those numbers will suffice against the Wizards.

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