New York Knicks have worst performance of the season in embarrassing loss to Magic
Jan 2, 2017; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks forward Carmelo Anthony (7) is defended by Orlando Magic guard D.J. Augustin (14) during the second quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Adam Hunger-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Knicks were pounded on their home court by the Orlando Magic, 115-103. Their effort on defense was embarrassing.

  • Orlando Magic 115 (16-20)
  • New York Knicks 103 (16-18)
  • NBA, Final, Box Score
  • Madison Square Garden, New York, NY

The New York Knicks are a bad defensive team. Maybe even worse than last season’s squad. In 2015-16, the Knicks allowed 115 or more points seven times. Monday night’s blowout loss to the Orlando Magic was the tenth time that’s happened this season.

Against the Magic, this performance was particularly embarrassing. Frank Vogel’s squad was one of the worst offensive teams in the Association entering tonight’s game.

A team that entered the game averaging 98.9 points per game and shooting 43.9 percent from the field dropped 115 points and shot 49.5 percent from the field.

Orlando averages 8.8 three-point makes per game. They had 8 makes from deep in the first half Monday night and finished with 15 total.

New York let the Orlando guards do whatever they wanted all game. Particularly Elfrid Payton who finished with 14 assists. The team, who averages 22 assists per game, finished with 35 in total.

The Knicks will try and snap their five-game losing streak Wednesday when the Milwaukee Bucks visit the Garden. Hopefully, Kristaps Porzingis will be back.