NBA News And Rumors: J.R. Smith Questions The 'Heart' Of The New York Knicks, Is There Season Already Over Before The Playoffs?

Mar 15, 2013 10:38 AM EDT
Knicks J.R. Smith
New York Knicks guard J.R. Smith reacts after being called for a foul during his team's match against the Dallas Mavericks in the second half of their NBA basketball game at Madison Square Garden in New York"

The health of star players Carmelo Anthony and Amar'e Stoudemire aren't the only issues for the New York Knicks. J.R. Smith points out an even bigger issue, that may not be a easily fixed as the playoffs are approaching.

"We got to check out our heart right now," he said. "We either got to compete or pack up and go home. It's just that simple."

He may be referring to the team's lack of competitiveness over the last two games, losing by 29 at Golden State on Monday and by 23 in Denver on Wednesday.

"I don't mind losing," Smith said. "But if we just go out there and get demolished, that's a problem, especially when you're supposed to be considered one of the best teams in your division and your conference. It's just not a good look for us."

Smith has become the Knicks first scoring option with the absence of Anthony and Stoudemire, but with no actual star to lead the team, the Knicks once promising season appears to be losing its direction.

Anthony had fluid drained from his right knee Thursday in New York and is expected to rejoin the team Friday in Los Angeles, possibly to play Sunday against the Clippers. Stoudemire had his right knee scoped and cleaned out Monday and will miss at least six weeks.

Related Articles:

Los Angeles Lakers News: Pau Gasol Expected To Start In His Return Next Week

NBA News And Rumors: '72 Lakers Believe Record Can Be Shattered By The Miami Heat

Get the Most Popular Stories in a Weekly Newsletter
© 2015 Sportsworldreport.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission.

Join the Conversation

  • Get Connected
  • Share
  • Like Us on Facebook
  • @sportswr
  • Recommend on Google
Real Time Analytics