New York Knicks: What We Learned From The Loss To Cleveland

Dec 7, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks small forward Carmelo Anthony (7) and Cleveland Cavaliers small forward LeBron James (23) react as James is called for a foul during the second quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

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Dec 7, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks small forward Carmelo Anthony (7) controls the ball against Cleveland Cavaliers small forward LeBron James (23) during the third quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Carmelo Anthony Is Still The Key

The New York Knicks have a rising star in Kristaps Porzingis and a dynamic playmaker in Brandon Jennings. The Knicks also have a resurgent big man in Kyle O’Quinn who has been making his name over the past few weeks.

For as deep and talented as New York’s roster has become, Carmelo Anthony is still the key to the success or failure of the Knicks.

Anthony finished with a season-low eight points in 24 minutes during the 126-94 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers. It was a poor display that was destined to hurt New York, but it was also an extreme display of his value.

When Anthony is unable to generate consistent offense, the Knicks find it difficult to build or maintain a lead.

The Knicks are 10-4 when Anthony scores at least 20 points. That record drops to 2-6 when he scores fewer than 20 points, with one of the two victories coming on a game-winner that Anthony himself converted.

The Knicks may now be a better team than they were in 2015-16, but the story remains the same: New York will go as far as Anthony takes them.

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