Knicks Preview: Keys to Defeating the Orlando Magic
Oct 30, 2015; Orlando, FL, USA; Orlando Magic guard
Evan Fournier(10) and guard
Victor Oladipo(5) talk against the Oklahoma City Thunder during the second quarter at Amway Center. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
3. Perimeter Play
The Orlando Magic have an impressive trio of guards in Evan Fournier, Victor Oladipo and Elfrid Payton. Tobias Harris can play both forward spots at a star-caliber level, Aaron Gordon is positionally versatile, and Mario Hezonja has upside.
Even Shabazz Napier has put forth some strong efforts in 2015-16.
Fournier, Harris and Oladipo are dangerous scorers, possessing the ability to go off for 20-plus points in any game. Payton is a high-grade facilitator, Napier offers sneaky production, and both Gordon and Hezonja play well above the rim.
Some may struggle, but at least one tends to rise to the occasion.
For the New York Knicks to win this game, they must receive high-quality play from the guards and Carmelo Anthony. Arron Afflalo and Jose Calderon have quietly worked well with one another, and both Langston Galloway and Jerian Grant provide defensive intensity.
The question is, will Anthony take over and lead the Knicks to the win?
Next: Second Chances