New York Knicks: Who Stepped Up Against The Phoenix Suns?

Dec 13, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; (From left) New York Knicks center Joakim Noah holds back forward Kristaps Porzingis as guard Brandon Jennings pushes Phoenix Suns center Tyson Chandler as guard Devin Booker comes in during a third quarter fight at Talking Stick Resort Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 13, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; (From left) New York Knicks center Joakim Noah holds back forward Kristaps Porzingis as guard Brandon Jennings pushes Phoenix Suns center Tyson Chandler as guard Devin Booker comes in during a third quarter fight at Talking Stick Resort Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 13, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) drives to the basket against New York Knicks guard Courtney Lee (5) in the first quarter at Talking Stick Resort Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 13, 2016; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Phoenix Suns guard Devin Booker (1) drives to the basket against New York Knicks guard Courtney Lee (5) in the first quarter at Talking Stick Resort Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

Courtney Lee

If you’re looking for elite production from the shooting guard position, then Courtney Lee may not be your guy. The New York Knicks acquired him to play a specific role, and that role includes bailing the offense out when it goes cold.

With the Knicks’ offense going cold for an extended period of time, it was Lee who stepped up to help stabilize the effort and provide an efficient scoring punch.

Lee recorded 14 points, two rebounds, one offensive board, two assists, two steals, and a number of clutch shots that saved New York from itself. He shot 6-of-8 from the field, went 2-of-3 from beyond the arc, and was one of the few Knicks who wasn’t afraid to shoot.

On a night where New York’s confidence was shaken and its toughness was tested, it was Lee who stepped up when he was needed most.

Though he excels in said areas, Lee has been mislabeled as a 3-and-D player. He’s capable of attacking off the bounce, creating space, and getting out in transition to lead the offense as both a scorer and facilitator.

The Knicks needed every one of those skills against the Phoenix Suns and Lee came through with a performance that helped New York remain competitive.