Knicks Face Offensive Woes in Los Angeles Swing
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The New York Knicks dropped back-to-back games at Crypto.com Arena this week, falling to the Lakers on Sunday and the Clippers on Monday, as cold shooting from Mikal Bridges and a rash of turnovers undercut their West Coast trip.
Bridges Goes Cold
Bridges, who had not been held scoreless all season, finished Sunday’s loss to the Lakers without a point for just the third time since arriving in New York last year. Foul trouble limited the forward’s minutes, and afterward he said early mistakes set the tone. “Being in foul trouble takes me away from being out there to try to help my team win,” Bridges noted.
One night later against the Clippers, Bridges managed only seven points on 3-for-8 shooting, missing his first five attempts before connecting midway through the second quarter. Head coach Mike Brown defended his starter. “He’s human and he’s going to have some nights like that,” Brown said. “His track record shows he can get it done.”
Clarkson Provides a Spark
Searching for offense in the fourth quarter versus the Lakers, Brown turned to Jordan Clarkson, who logged 10 minutes—his longest stretch since February 11—and scored nine points on four shots. “He’s a guy we can lean on,” Brown said. Clarkson will see his former team, the Utah Jazz, on Wednesday and admitted he is not sure how he will feel returning to Salt Lake City. Teammate Jalen Brunson praised the veteran’s professionalism: “Being a teammate of his has been great.”
Diawara’s First Poster
Rookie forward Mohamed Diawara recorded the first poster dunk of his NBA career Monday, rising over fellow Frenchman Nicolas Batum. Diawara finished with five points, four rebounds and two assists, calling the moment “funny to see” given Batum’s status as a role model while he was growing up in France.
Turnovers Pile Up
New York’s ball control proved costly in both contests: 19 turnovers against the Lakers and 20 more versus the Clippers. “We get into the paint, jump in the air and turn the ball over,” Brown said after Sunday’s defeat. Brunson echoed the concern Monday, pointing to Los Angeles’ long wingspans and passing-lane pressure while calling for more controlled drives.
The Knicks continue their road trip Wednesday in Utah, looking to regain offensive rhythm and cut down on mistakes.
Source: Hoops Rumors
