The New York Knicks, more often than not, win the winnable games this 2023-24 season. And according to Julius Randle, the reason for that is simple: they “don’t play” with their food.
In any competitive sport, it’s pretty normal for the stronger or favorite team to play with complacency whenever it faces a weaker team or a squad with a losing record. In the pro scene where every team is talented, though, that mentality can be a trap.
The same can be said in the NBA. While there are a number of struggling teams, no one can really relax and play without giving their 100 percent. If they do, the probability of an upset also increases. Fans have seen that a lot of times in the league. At the end of the day, there is one clear fact: no lead is safe until the clock hits zero.
Fortunately for the Knicks, they aren’t dealing with such issue. After their latest win over the hapless Washington Wizards on Sunday, New York improved to 14-1 against teams with a losing record this campaign.
Again, while others might not find that impressive, it’s important to note that the talent level in the league is insane. And considering how many teams play down when their opponents are weaker, the consistency that the Knicks have shown is absolutely admirable.
Speaking to reporters following their dominant 121-105 victory over the Wizards, Randle explained why they have been so consistent regardless of who their opponent is.
“Don’t play with your food. Take care of what you’re supposed to take care of and just keep improving,” Julius Randle responded when asked about the New York Knicks taking care of business that they are supposed to, per Steve Popper of Newsday Sports.
“Basketball gods got a funny way of rewarding you or humbling you. We just try to approach each game the right way and play basketball the right way.”
That’s definitely a great mentality to have. With that being said, it’s no surprise why the Knicks are 21-15 on the season and fourth in the East–only behind the Boston Celtics, Milwaukee Bucks and Philadelphia 76ers.
It surely won’t be shocking to see them further climb the leaderboard with that kind of mindset.
Julius Randle, New York Knicks Destroy Washington Wizards for 4th Straight Win
Julius Randle is definitely not joking when he said that they don’t play with their food. In fact, ever since trading for OG Anunoby, they have won four straight.
In their 16-point demolition of Washington, Randle himself exploded for 39 points, seven rebounds, five assists and one steal.
Brunson, for his part, added 33 points along with three rebounds and eight assists. Big man Isaiah Hartenstein was also phenomenal as he dominated the glass with 19 rebounds. Hartenstein had only eight points, but he did also record two assists, four steals and two blocks.
The Knicks are certainly playing with plenty of fire and motivation, and that much is obvious with their current hot streak.
Sure enough, it will be hard for anyone to end that run any time soon.
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