New York Knicks: Five Keys To Defeating The Orlando Magic
4. 3-Point Shooting
The Orlando Magic have one of the most intimidating interior duos in the NBA with power forward Serge Ibaka and center Bismack Biyombo. They’re revered rim protectors who can alter shots both at the rim and from 16 feet and within.
The last time out, the New York Knicks overcame that truth by stepping up with an ideal and efficient performance from beyond the arc.
New York finished the first meeting with nine 3-point field goals made on 20 attempts. By comparison, the Knicks shot just 42.1 percent on 2-point field goals and made just 15 free throws in what was a strong defensive performance by the Magic.
If the Knicks are going to defeat the Magic for a second time in 2016-17, then the 3-point shot must fall in a timely manner.
New York doesn’t necessarily need to shoot the lights out, but it must be able to convert the 3-ball at important stages of the game. If the offense is going cold or Orlando begins to go on a run, then the Knicks must be able to hit the shot that the Magic are struggling to convert.
The Knicks shouldn’t rely too heavily on any one shot, but converting the 3-ball in opportune moments will be crucial.