Knicks Face Hawks in Battle for Eastern Conference Supremacy After Rare Late-Game Collapse
Image Source: Internet
The New York Knicks' bid for their first NBA title in over 50 years received a reality check in December, highlighting the team's ongoing growth process. The Knicks will look to rebound from a rare fourth-quarter meltdown against the Atlanta Hawks on Friday, as both teams return to action after the New Year's Eve break.The Knicks' December was marked by a strong 11-4 record, culminating in a season-long seven-game winning streak and a 124-113 win over the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA Cup final on December 16. However, their 19-1 record when leading entering the fourth quarter took a hit when they squandered a 19-point lead in a 134-132 loss to the Spurs on New Year's Eve, while the Hawks snapped a seven-game losing streak with a 126-102 win over the Minnesota Timberwolves. The Knicks struggled defensively, allowing at least 125 points in four consecutive games and five times in the last six, with an average of 114.6 points conceded per game. This marks the highest defensive output for the franchise since the 1979-80 team allowed 115.1 points per game. Knicks coach Mike Brown acknowledged the team's defensive woes, stating, 'I don't know if we're tired or what we haven't been able to sustain anything defensively for 48 minutes.' In contrast, the Hawks have also faced defensive issues, surrendering at least 125 points 11 times in their last 17 games. They've gone 5-12 in that span and have allowed 126 points or more in each game during their seven-game losing streak that began on December 18. However, the Hawks looked improved in their 126-102 win over the Timberwolves on Wednesday, with Kristaps Porzingis and Jalen Johnson combining for 50 points. The Hawks' head coach, Quin Snyder, emphasized the importance of embracing the process and turning these efforts into habits. The Hawks will look to continue their improvement when they face the Knicks, who are second in the Eastern Conference with a 23-10 record. The Hawks, meanwhile, are aiming to move up the standings and end their losing streak.
