Every morning, we compile the links of the day and dump them here… highlighting the big storyline. Because there's nothing quite as satisfying as a good morning dump.
The Knicks are following the D’Antoni blueprint, which means a fast pace and lots of 3-pointers. At almost 25 attempts per game no one launches as many 3’s, and they are making them at almost a 37 percent clip. It’s quantity, not necessarily quality for the Knicks, but it also keeps them in almost every game.
The defense is below average in every meaningful statistic, but it has improved and isn’t quite the liability everyone thinks it is.
This makes for a great stylistic matchup with the Celtics, who shoot the fewest 3-pointers in the league and rely on their top-rated defense. The Knicks, on the other hand, try to outscore you. For all the heat D’Antoni takes for this approach, his teams have been successful when he has the players, and now he has the players.
WEEI – Can Knicks challenge the Celtics?
Am I really excited about a game vs the Knicks? Yes, but only because the media has fallen for this fool's gold of a team.
The Knicks defense ranks 27th in Opponents Points (106.6), 24th in Opponents FG% (47%), 20th in Opponents 3 FG% (37.8%). Saying their defense is "below average" is generous, Paul Flannery. The numbers don't lie.
The Celtics offense ranks 1st in FG% (51%) and 6th in 3FG% (38.6%).
In a nutshell, this matchup features the most efficient offense vs one of the worst defenses in the league (go ahead stat geeks, show me those convulated ratio/possession numbers that diminish my point). I like the Celtics chances. Can the Knicks win? Sure, especially if they get caught up in the Knicks' style of play.
On Page 2, Rajon Rondo shows no mercy on children.
Jus did this Christmas event with the team. Kids loved it. Also went 36-0 in Connect 4. Who want it??
C'mon Rajon. I understand your competitive nature, but please tell me you didn't let a few kids beat you at Connect4?
Save your fire for Raymond Felton.
The rest of the links:
Globe – Celtics running on full | Herald – Satch: Rondo beyond compare | CSNNE – Everyone pitching in during win streak | Perkins improves game while on shelf | ESPN Boston – Maine Mondays: Toine Time |
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