New York Knicks: 5 Statistics to Help You Remain Optimistic

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Mar 5, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) looks to pass defended by Detroit Pistons forward Tobias Harris (34) during the second half at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks defeated the Pistons 102-89. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Carmelo Anthony’s Passing

Offensively, the New York Knicks have been a complete disappointment in 2015-16. Isolation basketball has been more prevalent than anything else, and although the team does make a high volume of passes, most lead to one-on-one situations that require a player to beat their man individually.

If any one player is passing to avoid isolation, it’s the one contributor you wouldn’t expect to be doing so: Carmelo Anthony.

Anthony leads the Knicks with a career-high 4.2 assists per game. It’s the first time in his 13-year NBA career that he’s exceeded an average of 4.0 assists, and it shatters his previous best of 3.6 dimes per contest—a mark set back in 2011-12.

Anthony embracing a team-first mentality is the first step towards the Knicks competing for a championship.

Clearly, New York lacks the complementary talent necessary for Anthony’s newfound desire to facilitate to be put to good use. As Porzingis improves and New York swings for the fences in free agency, however, Anthony’s ability to distribute will prove vital.

If Anthony remains focused on getting his teammates involved once Phil Jackson reloads the roster with superior talent, New York can genuinely build around ‘Melo as the franchise centerpiece.

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