Knicks , Jazz : Scenes from a non-harmonic arpeggio

It sure felt like this was going to be a let down game, as Utah came to the Garden without their star big man in the lineup. The Jazz were just tough, methodical and professional. These young Knicks almost seemed unsure of how to beat a team that doesn’t get swallowed up by their own mistakes. There were flashes of the hustle and smarts we’re coming to know from them but the Jazz were able to keep them at bay. Then the Knicks started building up some steam. They got a miraculous buzzer-beating three from Tim Hardaway Jr. to save an oil spill of a play. That was the moment New York knew they had a chance.

In the first half, not much was working but Kristaps Porzingis did spring free along the baseline to slap a yarmulke on Derrick Favors.

The Jazz just kept firing threes. New York isn’t especially good at defending the three to begin with, and these Utes just kept on swinging the ball until they got the look they wanted.

It really felt like the highlight of the night was going to be Jarret Jack’s (coach is watching) belly flop:

Just barely out of your reach, Jarret.

In the second half the Knicks started to use some force, and despite being overzealous at times they managed to make the timely hoops and close out defensive possessions. Great game from Courtney Lee on both ends. Here’s to hoping his hamstring isn’t cooked. And can I say— excellent work from my main doo doo stain, my ace, Frank Ntilikina down the stretch and the stuff we’re becoming accustomed to from fourth quarter Kristaps.

Franko be sneakin’!

Gritty win. Recap to come. Game ball goes to Timmy. Until then, there’s this.