Blogging With the Enemy - Poasting and Toasting

With the Raps about to face the Knicks, we reached out to SB Nation's Knicks blogger Seth Rosenthal (Posting and Toasting) to discuss the team and tonight's match-up.

HQ: The Knicks seem to be playing better ball as of late and are within striking distance for a playoff spot. What has changed from earlier in the year? Given the teams supposed plans for 2010 wouldn't making the playoffs be counterproductive (the desire to have a high pick)?

Seth:  What's changed from earlier in the year seems to be a sense of steadiness and consistency. Earlier, Mike D'Antoni was waffling between giving time to his youngsters or playing his more veteran, sturdier guys (though this is debatable). He seems to have struck a nice balance, with the likes of David Lee, Wilson Chandler, and Danilo Gallinari leading the way, and veterans like Al Harrington and Jared Jeffries also playing important roles. Making the playoffs would not, in fact, be counter-productive at all. Since the Utah Jazz have unprotected rights to the Knicks' draft pick this year (Thanks Isiah!), it is in New York's best interest to win as much as possible. There is absolutely no reward for tanking.

HQ: Talk about Danilo Gallinari and Jordan Hill, two young players for the Knicks. Gallinari has been playing great ball while Jordan Hill can't crack the rotation. Why is one succeeding while the other waits in line?

Seth: Danilo Gallinari came into the league slightly tentative, relying mostly on his jump shot to provide offense. This had a lot to do with a bad back that has since been surgically repaired, but there was also an element of adjustment from the European game to that of the NBA. For the most part, this season's blossoming has been a product of boldness and aggressiveness on Gallo's part. He's still prone to disappear for the odd game, but Danilo is unquestionably a multi-talented weapon on both ends of the floor who excels when he plays with an edge. If the Raptors encounter badass Gallo, they're in for a long night. If not, it might look something like his 0-7, zero-point performance on Monday in OKC.

Unlike Gallo, Hill probably won't see much time against the Raptors. He's a very talented big guy who's got more polish at the age of 21 than people think. That said, Coach D'Antoni likes to keep a short rotation, and doesn't feel Hill is physically ready quite yet. Jordan's an active player, but he could use some time in the weight room and a little practice battling under the rim before he's ready to tangle with NBA centers.

HQ: What are the keys to the game for the Knick to ensure they secure a win against the Raps?

Seth: Hit shots. I'd say stop Chris Bosh, contain the three-pointer, and all that, but the key is really that the Knicks find and make open shots. That seems to be the chief difference between wins and losses this season. Ball movement is key, and if they locate easy scoring opportunities, they'll probably have a good chance against the Raptors.

Thanks to Seth!

Don't forget about to chat with us during the game tonight on the Game Day Thread.