Knicks Preview: Keys to Defeating Toronto Raptors
Dec 21, 2014; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) shoots the ball over Toronto Raptors forward
Patrick Patterson(54) at the Air Canada Centre. The Raptors won 118-108. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports
1. Carmelo Anthony
For just the second time this season, Carmelo Anthony finished a game at or above 40.0 percent shooting. He scored 24 points, making 8-of-20 field goal attempts, during the New York Knicks’ 99-95 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers.
Whether or not the injured DeMarre Carroll plays for the Toronto Raptors, Anthony needs a repeat performance—and then some.
Toronto has two offensive stars and a two-way anchor in DeMar DeRozan, Kyle Lowry and Jonas Valanciunas. All three should produce at a high level, which places quite the burden on New York’s lone star.
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The good news for New York is that Anthony has torched Toronto in the past.
In 2014-15, Anthony averaged 31.0 points on 46.0 percent shooting in two games against the Raptors. He scored 30 points in his only game against Toronto in 2013-14.
If Anthony produces at that level on Tuesday, and the Knicks execute in the previously alluded to manner, Derek Fisher’s crew will pull out a huge road win.