Lakers Vs. Knicks: Carmelo Shines While Lin Struggles

It doesn’t get any worse than this.  In a battle between arguably the two least talented teams in the NBA, the Lakers looked as bad as ever.  A last second heave by Jordan Clarkson to end the game made the final score somewhat close, but this one was a blow-out.  Against a bottom ten defensive team, the Lakers only scored 80 points, on 35.5% shooting.

Jordan Hill left early in the game with a reported quad injury and Nick Young did not play due to a sprained ankle.  As you would expect, one of the worst team’s in the NBA did not fare too well without their two best players.  The Lakers made Jason Smith look like Dirk Nowitzki in his prime and had no answer for Carmelo Anthony in the third quarter.  I mean, what did you expect? Ryan Kelly was the one guarding him.

This performance was quite surprising.  Coming off of a five-point victory against a championship contender in the Chicago Bulls, I imagined the Lakers to come out with a bit more energy.

This game was more important than one might think.  In fact, this one could have the biggest impact on the Lakers season.  You know what I’m talking about, TANKING.  The Lakers are currently fourth on the Tank Rank and came into the game 4 games back behind the New York Knicks, who rank second.  Anthony seems healthier than earlier in the season, therefore, it is very likely that the Lakers will pass the Knicks, and finish in prime contention for the number one overall pick.

Let’s look at the takeaways from this embarrassing performance.