We're Going Streaking!!

Over the first 23 games of the season, NY allowed more than eight wide-open 3PT makes per contest (the most in the NBA). Over their past four games, NY is allowing just 3.5 wide-open 3PT makes.

What a difference a week makes…

Last Saturday, in a game dubbed the Dallas Debacle, the Knicks' ship appeared to be sinking. Following the embarrassing blowout loss to the Mavs, New York found themselves three games under .500 and ranked 26th in Defensive Rating - ahead of only the Magic, Rockets, Spurs and Pistons (four teams determined to "Brick for Vic" their way to as many ping pong balls as possible). 

Welp, eight days later, this unpredictable season is back on the upswing. Against all odds, the Knicks are riding a four-game win streak. 

The primary catalyst for this recent run has undoubtedly been improved effort and focus on the defensive end (as well as a bit of good fortune). 

The Knicks failed to hold a single opponent under 100 points over the first 23 games of the season. Over their last four contests, they are allowing just 93 points per night.

In the victory over Cleveland, NY held the Cavs to 81 points, their lowest total this season. 

In the victory over Atlanta, NY held the Hawks to 89 points, their lowest total this season.

In the victory over Sacramento, NY held the Kings to 99 points, their lowest total this season. 

During this four-game winning streak, the Knicks have posted a Defensive Rating of 94.4. Not only is that the best mark in the entire league, but every other team in the NBA has DefRtg north of 100. New York also has the league's best Net Rating (16.8) during this stretch, ahead of the Celtics, Warriors, Grizzlies and red-hot Pels.