Knicks Preview: Keys to Defeating Toronto Raptors

Oct 31, 2015; Washington, DC, USA; New York Knicks forward

(23) is fouled by Washington Wizards center

(13) while attempting to dunk the ball in the third quarter at Verizon Center. The Knicks won 113-110. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

5. The Unsung Heroes

Carmelo Anthony is going to eclipse 20 points and Kristaps Porzingis will flirt with a double-double. Even early in the season, that much has become clear for the New York Knicks.

The question is, who else will step up?

In the season-opening win over the Milwaukee Bucks, Derrick Williams’ 24 points led a massive effort by the second unit. In a 117-110 road win over the Washington Wizards, three reserves scored in double-figures to complement Anthony’s 37 points.

During the 99-95 win over the Los Angeles Lakers, Anthony’s 24 points were supported by Jose Calderon, Langston Galloway and Robin Lopez scoring 14 points apiece.

Porzingis is good for 10-to-15 points and a solid number of rebounds, albeit with wavering efficiency. Generally speaking, the rest of the roster has been somewhere in between solid and inconsistent.

New York needs someone—perhaps multiple players—to step up and score if or when Anthony’s shot isn’t falling.

Next: Selflessness