New York Knicks deadline acquisition Jose Alvarado shines in his debut as they defeat the Boston Celtics
The New York Knicks might just be the team in the NBA under the most pressure. Despite making the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in over two decades last season, they still opted to fire head coach Tom Thibodeau, believing there was more to this team and a new coach could unlock that.
Heading into Sunday's contest on the road against the Boston Celtics, the Knicks had an opportunity to climb to the second seed in the East. While many expected them to heavily pursue Giannis Antetokounmpo at the deadline, they stayed put and opted not to shake up their entire roster.
Knicks New Acquisition Makes Debut
However, the Knicks did make one move at the deadline, acquiring New Orleans Pelicans guard Jose Alvarado, a New York native who grew up and played high school basketball in the city. After five seasons with the Pelicans, Alvarado's move to the Knicks put him on the most competitive team of his career.
In his debut, Alvarado came off the bench, logging 25 minutes and helping lead the Knicks to a 111-89 win over the Celtics. He finished the game with 12 points, two rebounds, two assists, two steals, and a block with a +13 plus-minus.
Based on how the rotation played out on Sunday, he'll play over both Jordan Clarkson and Tyler Kolek, expected to be in the mix with Landry Shamet and Miles McBride off the bench when the team is healthy.
Alvarado did play well, but it was yet another strong performance from Jalen Brunson, pouring in 31 points and dishing out eight assists as he continues his All-NBA season. Josh Hart was second on the team in scoring with 19 points, and Karl-Anthony Towns finished with a double-double.
As for the Celtics, Jaylen Brown led the way with 26 points, and Derrick White added 19. The Knicks held them to just 17% shooting from beyond the arc, in comparison to their 40% hit rate.
What's Next?
Now 9-1 in their past 10 games, the Knicks will head back home to face the Indiana Pacers on Tuesday, before facing the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday on the road to finish off their slate of games before the All-Star break.
Two contests in which the Knicks could very well win, especially given their recent form, they can solidify themselves as the second seed entering the break. The quest for the one seed remains up in the air, but the Pistons continue to hold ground.