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New York Knicks: Should The Knicks Tank The Rest Of The NBA Season?

By Matthew Perez

Jan 11, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; New York Knicks head coach Jeff Hornacek and forward Carmelo Anthony (7) watch on during a game against the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center. The Philadelphia 76ers won 98-97. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 11, 2017; Philadelphia, PA, USA; New York Knicks head coach Jeff Hornacek and forward Carmelo Anthony (7) watch on during a game against the Philadelphia 76ers at Wells Fargo Center. The Philadelphia 76ers won 98-97. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 9, 2016; Sacramento, CA, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) talks with forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) during the second half at Golden 1 Center. The Knicks defeated the Kings 103-100. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 9, 2016; Sacramento, CA, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) talks with forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) during the second half at Golden 1 Center. The Knicks defeated the Kings 103-100. Mandatory Credit: Sergio Estrada-USA TODAY Sports /

Leadership

Carmelo Anthony has taken heat over his career, and especially this season, for lacking the leadership skills that are essential to leading a team to a championship.

His scoring ability has never been in question, and it was evident against Atlanta, when he scored 45 points in 46 minutes on 50 percent shooting with only three 3-pointers made.

More importantly, Anthony proved that he can be a leader.

He took the responsibility of tying the game in regulation and in the first overtime. What went unnoticed was his defensive stop against Paul Millsap in the final seconds of regulation, keeping the game tied and forcing overtime.

Even when he fouled out in overtime, Anthony was vocal on the bench, talking trash to the opposition, and making sure his guys were in the right place.

As I mentioned earlier, Anthony was even in the huddle helping head coach Jeff Hornacek draw up a defensive strategy. That’s new territory for Anthony.

This isn’t just about Anthony. His leadership and attitude rub off on other players.

Brandon Jennings, Justin Holiday, and Courtney Lee played fearless basketball down the stretch, hitting tough shots, and defending at a high level.

For the first time all season, it felt like the Knicks were playing for each other. With effort like that, the Knicks can beat anyone.

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