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New York Knicks Preview: Keys To Defeating Houston Rockets

By Maxwell Ogden

Oct 4, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) dribbles the ball as Houston Rockets guard Eric Gordon (10) defends during the third quarter at Toyota Center. The Rockets won 130-103. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 4, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) dribbles the ball as Houston Rockets guard Eric Gordon (10) defends during the third quarter at Toyota Center. The Rockets won 130-103. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 1, 2016; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; New York Knicks guard Justin Holiday (8) leaves the court after being injured during the second quarter against the Detroit Pistons at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 1, 2016; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; New York Knicks guard Justin Holiday (8) leaves the court after being injured during the second quarter against the Detroit Pistons at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports /

4. The Second Unit

Though it’s ideal to believe the New York Knicks won’t foul James Harden, he has a frustrating tendency to bust that game plan wide open. When he drives, most players don’t have options other than fouling a player as quick, strong, and skilled as Harden.

Thus, if Courtney Lee, Joakim Noah, or any other Knicks player does fall into foul trouble against the Rockets, then the second unit must step up.

Even if the Knicks manage to avoid foul trouble, the second unit needs to be better. Brandon Jennings scored a season-high 12 points against the Detroit Pistons, but he’s otherwise struggled as it pertains to scoring.

Against a Houston Rockets team that has no trouble pouring in 100 points, the Knicks will need Jennings to maintain the momentum he developed against Houston.

Jennings will be joined by a number of key reserves who could be asked to play important minutes. Those players include Willy Hernangomez, Justin Holiday, Maurice Ndour, and Lance Thomas—all of whom are capable of a big performance.

If the Knicks are hoping to avoid a 1-3 start, then the unsung heroes must rise to the occasion against an explosive Rockets squad.

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