New York Knicks: Keys to defeating the Los Angeles Lakers on Jan. 21

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NEW YORK, NY – DECEMBER 12: Frank Ntilikina #11 of the New York Knicks in action against Brandon Ingram #14 of the Los Angeles Lakers at Madison Square Garden on December 12, 2017 in New York City. The Knicks defeated the Lakers 113-109 in overtime. (Photo by Jim McIsaac/Getty Images) /

Offense: Ball Movement

When the New York Knicks run Jeff Hornacek’s offensive system, the results tend to be intriguing. When the Knicks fall victim to their isolation tendencies, however, the efficiency of the offense declines and the opposition tends to gain control of the pace of the game.

If the Knicks are going to defeat the Los Angeles Lakers at Staples Center on Sunday, Jan. 21, then ball movement must be a top priority.

When New York defeated Los Angeles 113-109 on Tuesday, Dec. 12, it dished out 25 assists to just 14 turnovers. It was a critical aspect of the win, as the Knicks overcame periods of stagnant offensive execution to beat Los Angeles’ defense with its solid ball movement.

It was also a shining example of the fact that the Knicks play at a significantly higher level when the ball is moving than when it isn’t.

Thus far in 2017-18, the Knicks are 16-12 when they record at least 22 assists in a single game. When New York distributes fewer than 22 assists, however, it’s just 5-13—11 fewer wins and one more loss in 10 fewer games.

The Knicks have a number of capable playmakers on the roster, but this can’t be a matter of one player creating everything in the pursuit of victory.

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