Tonight's Matchup: New York Knicks vs. Washington Wizards
Where: Verizon Center
TV: MSG Network (7:00 pm)
Knicks Report (14-61)
Coming off a spirited comeback against the Nets on Wednesday, the Knicks look to build on some positive performances as they conclude the season series against Washington.
Andrea Bargnani got going early, with 17 of his 22 points by halftime, but Brooklyn opened up an advantage and New York trailed by 14 points entering the 4th quarter. It took some inspired performances by Knicks youngsters to lead the team back and turn the Garden crowd into a frenzy. Cleanthony Early scored all 14 of his points in the final period, Ricky Ledo set a new career high with 13, and Quincy Acy came off the bench to score 12 points, including two 3-pointers as part of the comeback effort.
In all, five Knicks made two 3s as they climbed back and gave themselves a chance to win on the last possession. Early's attempt at a buzzer-beater was off the mark, but Fisher was proud of the fight his team showed.
Wizards Report (42-33)
Washington is looking to find consistency as it prepares for the postseason; losers of five of their last seven, the Wizards will have to execute better in its half court offense (ranked 22nd in the NBA in efficiency this season) if they hope to make a deep run.
John Wall is dynamic with the ball in his hands -- a one-man fastbreak averaging 17.6 points and 9.9 assists per game -- but Washington is in the bottom third of the league in both 3-point and free throw attempts per game. Nene and Marcin Gortat give the Wizards size and skill up front, but they rely heavily on Wall to break down defenses and create looks.