New York Knicks: 5 Things Knicks Must Do to Stay Dangerous in the NBA Playoffs
The New York Knicks' resurgence has been the talk of the NBA since interim head coach Mike Woodson took over for Mike D'Antoni nine games ago.
The 8-1 record that the Knicks have posted in those nine games is a sign that things are going well in the Big Apple for a change.
However, there's 15 games left in the regular season and a ton of work left to do for the Knicks.
Here's a look at what the Knicks need to do in order to stay a dangerous team heading into the playoffs.
Get Healthy
New York definitely can't suffer any more injuries, but getting the likes of Jared Jeffries, Jeremy Lin and Amar'e Stoudemire back soon will be a big boost.
Through the Knicks' two major winning streaks of the season, the Knicks haven't been completely healthy for many of those games. Having a full compliment of players makes their depth an even bigger weapon.
Ride Melo
He's banged up as well with a groin injury, but the Orlando game was a very good sign. Carmelo Anthony got touches deep in the post early and made plays, not only by scoring, but he did a tremendous job passing the basketball as well.
He had an efficient 9-of-15 night from the floor Wednesday night, and the Knicks should look to build off that. Anthony's not forcing things, and he's keeping everyone involved. Getting him hot has to be a priority down the stretch.
Stay Unselfish
Ball movement has been a huge part of the Knicks' success. It's been contagious, as even guys like J.R. Smith, who's been known in the past as more as a selfish player, has become very unselfish in the Knicks offense.
It's vital that the unselfishness continues. There's too many weapons right now wearing a Knicks uniform. They need to continue to keep everyone involved.
Take Care of the Ball
The one things that's plagued the Knicks this season has been turnovers. When things go bad, the Knicks aren't taking care of the ball, most notably point guards Lin and Baron Davis.
However, under Woodson, the Knicks have put a bigger emphasis on valuing the basketball. That's something that needs to continue to improve.
Effort on Defense
The biggest reason for the turnaround has been the total team effort on the defensive end of the floor. Calling the effort outstanding is an understatement.
Guys like Tyson Chandler and rookie Iman Shumpert have been giving great efforts on the defensive end all season, and everyone else has now bought in.
The Knicks have only allowed 86.0 PPG in the past nine games. If they can bring that type of effort on a nightly basis, they will be a very dangerous team the rest of the season.
