Knicks Preview: Keys to Defeating Toronto Raptors

Nov 8, 2015; New York, NY, USA; Los Angeles Lakers center

(17) grabs a rebound between New York Knicks power forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) and New York Knicks center Robin Lopez (8) defending during the 4th qtr at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: The Knicks won 99-95. Gregory J. Fisher-USA TODAY Sports

3. Foul Trouble

The New York Knicks will need all hands on deck to defeat the division rival Toronto Raptors in Canada. That requires an aggressive and intelligent game that includes avoiding foul trouble.

We’re looking at you, Kristaps Porzingis.

Porzingis has been a surprise of the most pleasant variety. He’s more NBA-ready than anyone could’ve expected, ranking No. 4 in offensive rebounding and averaging a double-double per 36 minutes

Unfortunately, he’s also the league leader with 4.1 personal fouls committed per game.

Jose Calderon and Sasha Vujacic attempting to match up with Kyle Lowry and DeMar DeRozan could spell trouble. Toronto’s backcourt holds a significant athletic advantage and should be able to create penetration.

Toronto’s power forwards generally space the floor, which is good news for Porzingis, but New York will still need to play responsibly against a team that gets to the line for 30.0 free throw attempts per game.

Next: Containment