Knicks vs Wizards 1/31/16 at 7:00ET: Preview
Second place in the Southeast and a .5 game behind the Atlanta Hawks for first place, the scorching Washington Wizards look to make it 5 straight wins tonight as they host a tired, amateurish New York Knicks team.
The Wizards have been winners in 9 of their last 11 games, and it seems as if no one has found an answer to stop their highly talented backcourt in Bradley Beal and John Wall. Most recently, Wall put up 18 points and dished out 19 assists while Beal dumped in 27 points of his own. While Wall and Beal contribute most to this team, a big part of the winning streak would be the efforts of Marcin Gortat and Markieff Morris. Against the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday night, Gortat had a double-double while Morris chipped in 21 points. Morris is a player that typically flies under the radar but expect him to be a dominant force against the Knicks tonight with his work on the glass and his mid-range shooting.
In contrast, the New York Knicks are losers of 7 out of their last 11 and find themselves amidst organization turmoil surrounding the future of 9 time all star PF, Carmelo Anthony. Carmelo has made it clear he wants to stay a Knick but it would appear as if Phil Jackson wants him out. Anthony is considering waiving his no trade clause which would make him trade bait and likely ship him out of New York. Also, Derrick Rose will be sidelined for tonights game as he battles an ankle injury. This uncertainty is definitely not helping a clueless Knicks team who needs to get back on track if they want to even come close to the playoffs.
As a Knicks team that is plagued by defensive woes takes on a hot Washington time in D.C battling for playoff respect, don't expect any surprises as they Wizards will take care of business and take their 10th win in 12 games.
