It might be hard to remember, but Chris Duhon has played decent basketball at points in his Knick career, even this season. It's always seemed like the Knicks flourish when Duhon has it going, and struggle when he gets all limp and lifeless. Alan Hahn took a look (paywall) at Du's monthly splits, and the numbers don't lie:
Let's review the direct impact the point guard position has had on the Knicks this season:
In October, the team was 0-3. Duhon shot 26.9% from the field and 14.3% from three-point range. He averaged 7.7 points and 6.3 assists.
In November, the team was 3-11. Duhon shot 28.3% from the field and 24.1% from three. His numbers dipped to 6.9 points and 6.1 assists.
In the successful month of December, the team went 9-6. Duhon's numbers were the best of the season: 43.2% from the floor and 46.3% from beyond the arc. His scoring was up to 12.1 points and 6.9 assists.
Here in January, the team is 5-6 so far and check out Duhon's numbers: 30.8% field goals, 29.8% threes and his production is a season-low 5.3 points and 5.4 assists.
So, factually speaking, as Duhon goes, so go the Knicks.
Or perhaps it's better to say, production at the point guard position is so obviously critical to the team's success.
Believe your eyes. Chris Duhon's far more talented than his recent numbers suggest, but the Knicks will probably continue to struggle until he rediscovers his offense. It's either that or somebody else takes over, but I fear that's not likely.