Knicks Preview: 5 Keys to Defeating the Houston Rockets
Nov 21, 2015; Houston, TX, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) takes the ball to the basket during the fourth quarter as Houston Rockets guard
Jason Terry(31) defends at Toyota Center. The Knicks defeated the Rockets 107-102. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
1. Attack the Rack
Offensively, the New York Knicks are one of the least aggressive teams in the NBA. They fail to attack the basket with any form of consistency, and instead settle for jump shots and avoid the paint like the plague.
Against the Houston Rockets on November 21, that all changed.
New York was aggressive, creating penetration and getting to the line 34 times. That was great news for a team that ranks No. 2 in the Association in free throw percentage.
It was also a pleasant surprise from a team that ranks No. 21 in free throw attempts per game.
New York averages 22.6 free throw attempts, which made the 34 a significant development. That number has yet to be replicated—or anything close to it—with the Knicks falling as far as 15 free throw attempts in the most recent outing.
New York needs to get back to what worked against Houston the first time if it’s to return to .500.