Raptors vs. Knicks Game Thread: Update, TV info, and more

The 14 and 56 Knicks don’t have much left to play for but as we know those are the teams that can scare you (the Raptors loss in Cleveland last week is a good example). The Knicks are coming off a big comeback win against the Lakers. With 2.3 seconds to go in regulation, Mario Hezonja blocked a Lebron James fadeaway (!!), securing the win. Madison Square Garden went crazy.

Luckily for the Raptors they are playing at home and won’t have to face the raucous Garden crowd. They will get Kyle Lowry back as well, as the All-Star point guard is ready to go tonight after an ankle sprain kept him out in the previous two games.

With Kawhi Leonard out tonight due to load management, Pascal Siakam, Lowry, and a bunch of athletic bench guys has to be the winning formula. However, Siakam has rarely been through a shooting slump like the one he is on now. Over his past three games he’s shooting 15-for-42 from the field, good for 36%. There’s your storyline: The Raptors need Siakam to come up big in the midst of a shooting slump. Bam. It should be compelling television.

Another thing to keep an eye on: Marc Gasol has four three-point attempts in each of the last two games. Look for that to continue, and hopefully he jacks up a few more tonight against the Knicks.

For more on tonight’s game you can check out my preview from earlier in the day. Tip-off awaits. Let’s go.

Where to Watch

TSN, 7:30 PM EST

Lineups

Toronto - Fred VanVleet, Kyle Lowry, Danny Green, Pascal Siakam, Marc Gasol

New York - Emmanuel Mudiay, Damyean Dotson, Kevin Knox, Mario Hezonja, DeAndre Jordan

Injuries

Toronto - Serge Ibaka (out — suspension), Kawhi Leonard (out — load management)

New York - Frank Ntilikina (out — groin), Dennis Smith Jr. (out — back), Noah Vonleh (out — ankle)