The New York Knicks faced off against the Houston Rockets last night at Madison Square Garden. While the Knicks ultimately lost 114-110, perhaps their biggest issue from last night was the fact that head coach David Fizdale seemingly upset Enes Kanter, who was removed from the starting lineup before the game. Kanter was originally slated to start the game for the Knicks but ended up being replaced. After the game, Kanter sounded off and was clearly frustrated about the decision, especially since he didn't get to play all game.
"I want to play basketball. We're all competitors. I want to play basketball," Kanter explained according to ESPN. "So just if you're going to play me here, play me. If not, then just get me out of here."
Kanter also added how he's not happy with his role with the team right now, saying "My job right now is just cheer for my teammates and try to be a good teammate, [but] what they're doing to me is pretty messed up. I deserve way better."
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Fizdale explained the decision to sit Kanter and said that he wanted more speed on the court to keep up with James Harden, who ended up scoring a career-high 61 points.
"I was thinking how much speed I can keep on the floor to just balance it and keep up with him and be able to challenge him," Fizdale said. "And obviously, he still went for what he went for, but I thought it at least gave us a chance to compete and win at the end."
The Knicks have struggled all season, as they currently hold a record of 10-36 and are 14th in the Eastern Conference.