New York Knicks: Who Stepped Up Against The Miami Heat?

Dec 6, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) controls the ball over Miami Heat guard Rodney McGruder (17) during the second half at American Airlines Arena. The New York Knicks defeat the Miami Heat 114-103. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 6, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) controls the ball over Miami Heat guard Rodney McGruder (17) during the second half at American Airlines Arena. The New York Knicks defeat the Miami Heat 114-103. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 6, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; New York Knicks center Joakim Noah (13) warms up prior to the game against the Miami Heat at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 6, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; New York Knicks center Joakim Noah (13) warms up prior to the game against the Miami Heat at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /

Joakim Noah

The New York Knicks need better production and efficiency from starting center Joakim Noah. That’s become one of the hottest topics on the New York sports scene, as Noah signed a four-year deal worth $72 million and hasn’t played up to the contract’s worth.

Against the Miami Heat, Noah came out with a passion and recorded a double-double in less than 15 minutes of action.

Noah went toe-to-toe with Hassan Whiteside and recorded 10 points, 10 rebounds, seven offensive boards, and two assists in just 14 minutes. He shot 5-of-6 from the field and was the driving force behind the Knicks’ success when Anthony was struggling.

Noah needs to avoid petty fouls, but when he was on the court against Miami, he bordered on dominance in his own unique way.

Noah needed a performance like this to restore the confidence he has in his ability to provide a quality impact. He needs to do this on a more consistent basis, but giving New York 10 points and 10 rebounds would’ve been great in 30 minutes, let alone 14.

If the Knicks can get more performances like this from Noah, they can border on contending status during the 2016-17 season.