RJ Barrett got called out by Knicks Head Coach Tom Thibodeau for not putting in the extra work, unlike some of the other players on the 12 win, 13 loss basketball team. I, like many others, was saddened by this statement, because almost every Knicks fan stands behind RJ Barrett and wants him to be the future of the franchise. To hear a comment about his work ethic, in that manner, was disheartening.

On Tuesday night, RJ Barrett had something to say about it. He went on to have one of the best games of his career, finishing with 32 points on 7-8 shooting from behind the arc. Alec Burks got back to himself after 2 sloppy games, and while Randle’s stats may not be the prettiest, he had a great 2nd half to help the Knicks hold off any chance of a Spurs comeback.

Another person who responded to disappointment from their head coach was Mitchell Robinson. Coach Thibs decided to bring Mitch off the bench on Tuesday, which Robinson took personally. Robinson played amazing pick and roll defense, always saw his man and the ball, and rarely was caught ball watching. He finished with 11 points, 14 rebounds, and 3 blocks.

I wish I could say that type of total team effort was showed last night, but then I’d be lying right to your face and to myself.

While RJ Barrett, Alec Burks, and Obi Toppin held up their end of the bargain, the rest of the team could not follow suit, and the Knicks got absolutely waxed by a team who has players in health and safety protocols, and is trying to tank.

The starting lineup for the Indiana Pacers was deadly, as the lowest scorer in the lineup finished with 15 points. Chris Duarte, the rookie who has played fantastic for the Pacers, finished with 23 points on 9 for 11 shooting from the floor.

The defensive effort the Knicks played with last night has left them with no identity, and they need to find one if they want any shot at making the play in tournament.

The Knicks have a chance to get my hopes up tomorrow at 7:30 PM EST against the Toronto Raptors.