New York Knicks: Who stepped up against the OKC Thunder on Dec. 16?

Michael Beasley

With Kristaps Porzingis sidelined by a knee injury, the New York Knicks started Michael Beasley at power forward. Matched up against an Oklahoma City Thunder team that was coming off of a triple-overtime encounter with the Philadelphia 76ers, Beasley slammed his foot on the gas pedal.

With a chance to lead his team to victory, Beasley turned the clocks back to the days of his dominance with the Kansas State Wildcats.

Beasley dominated the Thunder, matching a season-high with 30 points on 11-of-18 shooting from the field. He also went a perfect 2-of-2 from beyond the arc and converted an efficient six of his seven free throw attempts in 38 minutes of action.

In addition to scoring at virtual will against everyone the Thunder sent his way, Beasley added five rebounds, four assists, two blocks, and a +/- of +13.

This was not only the highest-scoring performance of Beasley’s brief tenure with the Knicks, but his best all-around game, as well. His willingness to create for others made it even more difficult to defend him in isolation, and his defensive contributions made it easy to keep him on the court.

For what it’s worth: Beasley has scored in double-figures in three straight games and six out of his past eight appearances. Has the sixth man arrived?