The "New" New York Knicks take to the floor for the first time since the Carmelo trade saga ended. How will the Knick's new starting five fare against the Bucks tonight?
On the night of
legends, a future legend takes the court at Madison Square Garden, wearing a
New York Knicks jersey for the first time. Brooklyn native and newly acquired
New York Knick, Carmelo Anthony, plays his first game for the New York Knicks
as they face the Milwaukee Bucks in what's expected to be one of the most
highly anticipated basketball games in New York since the days of Patrick
Ewing. This is also "Legends Night". A former Knicks star from each
decade is honored. This should be an unforgettable night.
Knicks Starting Lineup
The New York Knicks expect to have their newly acquired players playing tonight. There's
been no formal announcement but expect to see Chauncey Billups at the point,
Landry Fields at the other guard, Carmelo Anthony and Amare Stoudemire at the
forward positions, and most likely Ronny Turiaf at center. Expect Amare
Stoudemire to take the lead. This is the team that he's been leading the entire
season. Chauncey Billups will play a major part in this game. I see him looking
to setup Stoudemire, Anthony, and Fields, trying to gain a chemistry between
players that aren't used to playing with eachother.
The Bucks Have Owned The Knicks
Let's not forget that aside from the anticipation and excitement, both teams
are looking to win the game. The Milwaukee Bucks have dominated the New York
Knicks as of late. The Bucks have won four straight against the Knicks, They've
won 8 of the last 9 games against New York and 4 straight at Madison Square
Garden. In their previous meeting, the Bucks defeated the Knicks, 107-80. It's
the Knicks lowest scoring output of the year. Can the addition of Anthony and
Billups break the Bucks stronghold over the Knicks?
Milwaukee Bounces Back After the Break
Before the all star break, the Bucks lost 8 out of 10 games. After the break,
they came back strong with a 94-88 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves.
Brandon Jennings led the way with 27 points and 7 assists and Corey Maggette
added 20 points and 6 rebounds.
Outcome of the Game
Trends aren't going to be a factor here. The Knicks will be filled with
adrenaline and they'll need it because their bench will be thin. Coach Mike
D'antoni isn't big on playing his bench players,regardless. The Knicks are a 7
point favorite on the NBA odds boards and are the far superior team. Seven points is a lot to lay for
a team that hasn't formed a chemistry yet. Take the Bucks and the points.
Free NBA Betting Pick - Milwaukee +7