New York Knicks: Keys to defeating the Orlando Magic on Dec. 3

Offense: Work The Ball Inside

If Kristaps Porzingis plays, he’ll be a day removed from an illness that forced him to miss practice and less than a week removed from spraining his ankle. Whether or not he’s available, the New York Knicks will need to employ a strategy that accounts for his absence or limited contributions.

In order to execute the offense in an efficient manner with an absent or hobbled Porzingis, the Knicks must be able to work the ball inside.

The Magic currently rank dead last in the NBA in points allowed in the paint per game at a whopping 49.7. New York ranks No. 11 in the Association in points in the paint per game, which puts it in a position to simply double down on a formula that’s already working.

If the Knicks get Enes Kanter isolation opportunities in the post, and Tim Hardaway Jr. utilizes his driving lanes, Jeff Hornacek should be able to build a successful game plan.

Furthermore, Orlando currently ranks No. 25 in fast break points allowed per game at a rather debilitating 12.3. The Magic are also allowing 19.3 points off of turnovers per game, which ranks No. 19 in the Association—a sign that New York has a weakness to exploit.

If the Knicks make defense a priority, getting out in transition and generating easy and efficient offense will lead to more points in the paint—and a good shot at victory.