New York Knicks: Five Takeaways From The Loss To Utah Jazz
Pushing The Pace
The fourth quarter of the New York Knicks’ battle with the Utah Jazz was a testament to what this team is capable of achieving. After ranking dead last in fast break points in 2015-16, it’s also a testament to what New York was incapable of achieving as season ago.
After the Utah Jazz went on an early run, the Knicks fought back by pushing the pace and exploiting an athletic advantage at the guard positions.
Derrick Rose, Brandon Jennings, and Courtney Lee played minutes together in something of a small-ball lineup. That trio helped bring the Knicks get back into the game by running the floor and attacking the basket.
With Lee trailing as a 3-point shooter, Rose and Jennings were able to lead the resurgent charge by keeping the defense on its heels.
Generally speaking, the Knicks are more efficient when they push the pace and allow the guards to dictate the offense. Slowing the game down has generally led to isolation possessions that have hurt New York more than they’ve helped.
New York went on a run in the fourth quarter when the guards pushed the pace and fell apart when the offense slowed down.