New York Knicks: Keys to defeating the Chicago Bulls on Dec. 27

The New York Knicks will begin the most challenging stretch of the season against the Chicago Bulls on Dec. 27. Who must step up against Chicago?

If the New York Knicks are going to survive the next 27 games, then Jeff Hornacek must ensure that his team emerges victorious from the games it’s expected to win. That’s easier said than done, but it’s what every team that’s competing for a postseason berth must be able to do.

That process will begin on Wednesday, Dec. 27, when the Knicks hit the road for an opportunity for redemption against the Chicago Bulls.

New York enters Wednesday’s encounter with a 17-16 record overall and a 2-10 record on the road. One of its 10 losses was suffered at the hands of the Bulls on Saturday, Dec. 9, when the Knicks blew a fourth quarter lead and ultimately fell 104-102 at the United Center.

The Knicks will have a chance to redeem themselves by simultaneously addressing the road woes and winning the next chapter in this reemerging rivalry.

20 of New York’s next 27 games will be played on the road. In order to remain in the postseason picture come the All-Star Break, it will need to win the more favorable games on the schedule, thus building momentum and confidence for the more challenging encounters.

The question is: What must the New York Knicks do in order to defeat the Chicago Bulls and start this grueling stretch on a high note?