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New York Knicks: Keys To Defeating The Denver Nuggets

By Maxwell Ogden

Mar 8, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) dribbles the ball against Denver Nuggets forward Darrell Arthur (00) in the third quarter at the Pepsi Center. The Nuggets defeated the Knicks 110-94. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 8, 2016; Denver, CO, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) dribbles the ball against Denver Nuggets forward Darrell Arthur (00) in the third quarter at the Pepsi Center. The Nuggets defeated the Knicks 110-94. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 26, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; New York Knicks guard Brandon Jennings (3) brings the ball down court during the first half of the game against the Charlotte Hornets at the Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 26, 2016; Charlotte, NC, USA; New York Knicks guard Brandon Jennings (3) brings the ball down court during the first half of the game against the Charlotte Hornets at the Spectrum Center. Mandatory Credit: Sam Sharpe-USA TODAY Sports /

3. Ball Movement

The Denver Nuggets have an uncanny ability to run up the store against opponents of all calibers. The New York Knicks haven’t exactly been a defensive juggernaut in 2016-17, which makes offensive execution a critical point of emphasis.

If New York’s defense isn’t going to step up, then it must move the ball well and convert open shots against a porous Denver defense.

The Nuggets average 106.6 points per game and 103.4 points per 100 possessions. New York actually ranks higher in the latter regard, but Denver is the type of team that can consistently push the pace and produce more than 100 possessions.

Thus, if the Knicks’ defense is unable to hold Denver below 100 points, then its offense will need to overpower and outsmart the opposition.

New York is currently 13-5 when it records at least 20 assists and 1-7 when it fails to reach that mark. It’s 5-1 when it racks up at least 25 assists, which is a number it could conceivably reach if Denver continues to struggle defensively.

Denver is allowing 107.8 points per 100 possessions. In order to make the game as simple as possible, New York should move the ball and win through teamwork.

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