On Tuesday night in New Orleans the New York Knicks lost their ninth straight game at the hands of the Pelicans, 104-93.
Anthony Davis put in 18 points and added three blocks as New Orleans pulled away in the second half, notes the Associated Press. Forward Tyreke Evans shot 11 for 15 from the field and scored a game-high 27 points along with six assists and two steals.
For the Knicks, the game followed the familiar story seen way too many times this year by fans. Although the game was close throughout the first half, New York again couldn't keep pace in the second half, falling behind yet again by double-digits. Unlike other games though, where the Knicks would find a way to fight back into it, in this one they fizzled out oh so quietly.
Amare Stoudemire was the only glimmer of hope for the Knicks offensively. He put in a season high 26 points on a very efficient 11 of 18 shooting, notes CBS Sports. Carmelo Anthony struggled all night long, scoring 17 and only managing to create 11 shots.
The double-team strategy Pelicans head coach Monty Williams orchestrated gave Anthony and the Knicks fits. Anthony was unable to recognize the double team early enough to keep the offensive flow going. He alone turned the ball over four times. The Knicks had 13 total turnovers on the night.
Like a broken record, the Knicks continue to struggle down the stretch with defense, and especially rebounding as they were outscored on the boards 43-10.
New York will somehow look to break the losing streak Wednesday night as they have a quick turnaround to face the defending champion Spurs in San Antonio.