By : Mike Rifkin
On Monday night, the Knicks beat the Celtics 109-94 for their sixth consecutive win. The win puts the Knicks in fifth place in the Eastern Conference, meaning they would make the playoffs without playing in the play-in tournament.
One of the bright spots for the Knicks has been their defense. Over the last six games, they have forced double-digit turnovers in five of those games. They have won the rebounding battle in five games as well. A big reason for that has been the return of Mitchell Robinson, who returned from a fractured thumb. But in three games since returning, Robinson has a double-double in each game, including 10 points and 13 rebounds last night.
Julius Randle has been playing great as well. Randle had 23 points, seven rebounds, and four assists in the win over the Celtics. Over the last six games, Randle is averaging 28.5 points per game, 7.2 rebounds, and 3.2 assists. He is also shooting 38% from three-point range.
Then there is Jalen Brunson, the best free agent signing of the offseason and one of the best the Knicks have made in a long time. Brunson’s play has been consistent all season long. Over his last six games, Brunson is averaging 26.0 points per game, 5.3 assists, and 4.0 rebounds.
Brunson’s former Villanova teammate Josh Hart, whom the Knicks acquired at the trade deadline, has been a great addition. Hart is averaging 13.8 points per game, 5.3 rebounds, and 3.2 assists during the win streak. But the most important number is 63.2, which Hart shoots from a three-point range. Hart is also averaging 1.2 steals per game.
The other guys have stepped up as well. Immanuel Quickley, who had 23 points in the win over the Celtics, is averaging 15.8 points per game over the last six games. Obi Toppin, Quentin Grimes, and Isaiah Hartenstein have had moments during the stretch.
The Knicks’ next three games are massive. They will play the Nets and Heat, competing for that fifth seed before a rematch with the Celtics in Boston.
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