Knicks Lose a Game and Lose OG For a Few Weeks, But the Cavalry is Coming

NY will likely take a look at some intriguing buyout candidates expected to hit the open market...

Final Score: Knicks 108 - Mavs 122
Record: 33-19

New York started last night's matchup vs. Luka Doncic and Dallas with eight healthy bodies. By halftime, they were down to seven. Yet, the gritty Knicks competed and kept the contest close, before Doncic put the hammer down in the final frame. 

Although the 'Bockers lost for just the second time in 12 games, Donte DiVincenzo remained red hot. Obviously, there is plenty to talk about in KnicksLand, between injury updates and new additions set to arrive this weekend (and we'll discuss all such matters shortly), but we have to first acknowledge yet another remarkable performance from DDV, as his emergence as an elite marksman is becoming a fascinating storyline in this sensational 2023-24 season.  

The Mavs' defensive game plan heading into last night was clear: Make sure somebody/anybody other than DiVincenzo beat them. Thus, they blitzed DDV repeatedly and forced him into difficult, contested shots. However, Big Ragu still found a way to pour in 36 points on 13-of-27 from the floor, 7-of-12 from downtown and 3-of-4 from the charity stripe. He also chipped in two rebounds and three assists in his 43 minutes of action. 

It was DiVincenzo's sixth straight contest with at least 20 points, and during this six-game stretch, he's averaged a whopping 29.2 points, 4.3 rebounds, 4.0 assists, 5.8 made three-pointers (!!) and 1.5 steals while slashing 47/42/80. Those are awe-inspiring numbers, especially when you factor in the efficiency combined with the high volume and usage rate. 

In fact, DiVincenzo is the first player in Knicks franchise history with 150+ points and 35+ made three-pointers over a six-game stretch. 

The only other players in the NBA to average at least 29/4/4 and five 3PTs over a six-game stretch this season are Steph Curry, Trae Young and Tyrese Haliburton.

DiVincenzo is shooting with such incredible confidence, the likes of which we've rarely seen here in New York since JR Smith, Steve Novak, Allan Houston, and John Starks let it fly.