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Knicks Set to Battle Pelicans at The Garden: A Showdown of Strategy and Skill

As the New York Knicks prepare to host the New Orleans Pelicans at Madison Square Garden, fans are eager to see how their team will fare in this upcoming clash. The game, scheduled for February 28th, promises an exciting matchup as both teams bring their unique strengths onto the court.


NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - OCTOBER 28: RJ Barrett #9 of the New York Knicks scores a basket during the third quarter of an NBA game against the New Orleans Pelicans at Smoothie King Center on October 28, 2023 in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sean Gardner/Getty Images)

The Knicks have been showing a mix of performances in recent games. Despite a strong start against Orlando with 36 points in the first quarter, they couldn't maintain momentum and ultimately fell with a final score of 100-118. Their defensive rating was notably high at 137.5 points per 100 possessions while their offensive rating stood at a more favorable 110.4.


In Houston, the Knicks managed to keep it closer but still came up short by two points (103-105). They showed improvement on offense with an effective field goal percentage of 52 percent and were able to convert fast breaks effectively with a success rate of 67 percent.


NEW ORLEANS, LA - OCTOBER 28: Immanuel Quickley #5 of the New York Knicks dribbles the ball during the game against the New Orleans Pelicans on October 28, 2023 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Derick Hingle/NBAE via Getty Images)

However, it was during their home game against Indiana where concerns were highlighted despite scoring well overall (111-125). Their defense allowed too many points in paint and struggled to contain fast breaks – areas that will need tightening up before facing the Pelicans.


Madison Square Garden has always been known for its electrifying atmosphere which can undoubtedly influence game outcomes. With home-court advantage on their side this time around, the Knicks will look to leverage this energy boost from fans who are known for being one of the most passionate crowds in basketball.


NEW ORLEANS, LA - OCTOBER 28: Julius Randle #30 of the New York Knicks drives to the basket during the game against the New Orleans Pelicans on October 28, 2023 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Layne Murdoch Jr./NBAE via Getty Images)

The key for New York will be consistency throughout all four quarters both offensively and defensively if they want to secure victory over New Orleans. Fans should expect intense matchups across all positions as both teams vie for dominance on court.


For those looking forward to catching every dribble and dunk live, tune into MSG Network channel 634 or join fellow supporters at Madison Square Garden when doors open ahead of tip-off time set for February 28th at 7:30 PM Eastern Time.

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