Knicks’ 2-8 stretch highlights defensive collapse and potential trade talk

Cbssports reports the New York Knicks have lost eight of their last 10 games, a run that included Karl-Anthony Towns’ late three that missed in a loss to the Phoenix Suns and prompted boos at Madison Square Garden; coach Mike Brown said "the fans have every right to boo" after the game.

The offense has cooled from one of the league's best to 21st during this skid as January shooting efficiency has dipped, and Jalen Brunson has missed two games with an ankle injury. More concerning is the defense: the team ranks 19th overall and has allowed more points than all but one team over the recent stretch, opponents are converting a high share of wide-open threes, and Brown has repeatedly called out a lack of urgency and sustained physicality that has led to blown leads on several possessions.

Research cited in the story notes only a small number of champions have endured a 2-8 span and still won titles, and teams have reached the Finals after similar slumps. The Knicks could try to address the issue via the trade market—past rumors have linked them to Giannis Antetokounmpo and Jose Alvarado—or attempt to fix the problems internally; it remains to be seen which route the team will take.

Key Topics

Sports, New York Knicks, Karl-anthony Towns, Jalen Brunson, Mike Brown, Madison Square Garden