Knicks Mavs Preview

Friday Night The Knicks are playing the Mavericks @ MSG tipoff 7:30pm 

So far you have to say both teams have looked impressive. They have a combined record of 7-1 and are among the league leaders in a number of key offensive and defensive categories.  The Mavericks, despite the absence of Das Power Forward (see below), have remained efficient on the offensive end (3rd highest offensive efficiency rating according to Teamrankings.com).

They have also maintained an overall point differential of 8.8 and are making just over half of their shots (50.5% FG and a remarkable 48.5% from downtown)*. They present an interesting challenge for the Knickerbockers, who have until this point exceeded expectations defensively (understatement, they're first in scoring defense).

I credit the Knicks newfound defensive prowess to Mike Woodson. He exudes authority, you love to see a coach who gets upset at blown assignments. His hands on approach (exemplified by his decision to almost always speak to a player after he checks out of a game) is so refreshing after Mike D'antoni's patented "blank stare bordering on apathy" look after every miscue. We'll see if Mike Woodson can keep this team focused and united when they inevitably face adversity. I'm inclined to believe they will, given that he's turned A'mare's absence into a blessing in disguise and its proved they can weather an early storm.

That is not to say by any means that in the long run they won't need A'mare. The Knicks have relied heavily on three point shooting through the first three games. While the team has an abundance of players willing to hoist from downtown (JR, Felton, Sheeeeeeed, Novacane, Melo, and even Ronnie Brewer), an over reliance on outside shooting is dangerous (Just ask the '09 Magic whose three point shooting had been transcendant through the regular season and playoffs, then deserted them almost completely in the Finals). The Knicks will need another viable half-court inside scoring threat other than Carmelo Anthony and occasional penetration by Raymond Felton.

In terms of "key" (aka bs human interest) story lines, Maverick Owner Mark Cuban (see what I did there?, think John McCaine...I know, I know, wrong election) claiming he holds a grudge against Jason Kidd according to the New York Daily News. I'm thinking this could evolve into an ongoing press/twitter war given Mark Cuban's propensity for engaging in douche-baggery (as seen on dancing with the stars).

But alas, I digress. This game should be entertaining but I have to give the Knicks the edge because of the fired-up home crowd (translation: I have no fucking idea whats going to happen in this game but it'd be awesome if the Knicks could pull it out).

*All Stats unless otherwise stated are from www.nba.com/statistics