The New York Knicks enjoyed a comfortable win on Martin Luther King Day, as they cruised past the Brooklyn Nets, 119-94. It snapped a three-game losing streak, and though a big climb is still ahead, the victory was certainly a great way to begin a seven-game road trip.
One Knickerbocker, however, had an extra-interesting night. Courtney Lee, the aggressive and athletic two-guard is now on the team's record books, as he tied the franchise record for most consecutive free throws made (44), which was set by Chris Duhon in 2008. Knicks insider Al Ianazzone tweeted about the feat yesterday:
Courtney Lee just tied the all-time Knicks' record for consecutive free throws made. He's hit 44 in a row, matching Chris Duhon.
— Al Iannazzone (@Al_Iannazzone) January 15, 2018
Lee has not missed from the charity stripe since November 27, 2017, and his improved accuracy from the line is showing in the stat sheet. A career 85.6-percent free throw shooter, his rate for the season is now at the 96.1 mark, currently a career-high and league-best. Following Sunday's contest, he has now made 74 of his 77 attempts from the line this season.
Speaking of “highs,” free throws are just a half of the story when it comes to Lee's great 2017-18 campaign. Along with his impressive accuracy, he's also netting a career-high in points (13.3 per game) and steals (1.3 per game). He greatly welcomed the challenge of scoring more than usual when guard Tim Hardaway Jr. went down with a leg injury. Lee had five 20-point games in the 19 contests Hardaway missed, three of which were team-highs.
Aside from the inevitable jinx, which might be already in since dozens of people have now pointed out the streak, Lee is looking like he's well-poised to at least set the new record in the coming days.
The Knicks have Lee's old team, the Memphis Grizzlies next on their schedule. He's 20-for-24 in 17 career games opposite the Grizzlies.
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