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New York Knicks: A closer look at what the bench did against the Boston Celtics

Chip Murphy
New York Knicks: A closer look at what the bench did against the Boston Celtics
Jan 18, 2017; Boston, MA, USA; New York Knicks center Willy Hernangomez (14), guard Courtney Lee (5) and guard Justin Holiday (8) defend against Boston Celtics guard Isaiah Thomas (4) in the second half at TD Garden. The Knicks defeated the Celtics 117-106. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

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Courtney Lee was only supposed to shoot threes

An all-time great three-point shooter with a last name that rhymes with the number three is epic. And don’t say I’m exaggerating by calling Courtney Lee an all-time great deep threat. He’s 71st all-time in three-point percentage, and his career is far from over.

That’s why it was surprising on Wednesday when he put together an impressive all-around game. He logged 38 minutes, nine points, eight rebounds, and seven assists. Lee was the most valuable player on the floor in New York’s win.

He even showed his skills creating off the dribble. For a traditional spot-up shooter that’s rare. It shows how aggressive Lee wanted to be coming off the bench.

Per NBA.com, he had a net rating of 24.6 points per 100 possessions (point differential while he’s on the court) for the game. That’s good for fifth on the team, despite leading the squad in minutes. He busted his ass too.

Lee led the team in total distance run (miles), deflections, loose balls recovered, and contested shots. According to NBA.com, Lee contested more shots than Rose and Brandon Jennings combined.

[sc name=”Knicks Link Slideshow” link=”elitesportsny.com/?p=99923&page=3″ text=”Willy Hernangomez Needs Consistent Minutes” ]

Chip Murphy
Chip Murphy

I'm ESNY's Executive Editor for EliteSportsNY.com.
I cover the New York Knicks and Brooklyn Nets.
Email: chip.murphy@elitesportsny.com

Chip Murphy covers the NBA for Elite Sports NY. You can find him on Twitter @ChipperMurphy.