Knicks Fans Fuel Alvarado's Electrifying Impact
The New York Knicks have found a spark plug in Jose Alvarado, and it’s not just his on-court tenacity that’s making waves-it’s the fans who have lit the fuse. Karl-Anthony Towns has been vocal about Alvarado’s seamless transition to the Knicks, and he’s quick to share the credit with the roaring crowd at Madison Square Garden.
A Hometown Hero Returns
Acquired from the New Orleans Pelicans on February 5 in exchange for Dalen Terry and two second-round picks, Alvarado, a Brooklyn native, has fit in perfectly from the get-go. His connection with the fans has been palpable, and Towns believes this energy has been crucial to Alvarado’s immediate success.
“They made him feel loved and welcomed,” Towns remarked. “He’s reciprocated that energy with his tenacity on the court. Shout-out to our fans who gave him the confidence and love to do what he does best.”
Instant Impact on the Court
Alvarado’s arrival has been nothing short of electrifying. Known for his defensive prowess, he’s brought a jolt off the bench, averaging 10.2 points, 2.5 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and a league-leading 2.2 steals per game since joining the Knicks. This is a significant uptick from his time with the Pelicans, where he averaged 7.9 points and 0.9 steals per game.
His defensive nickname, "Grand Theft Alvarado," is well-earned, as evidenced by his five-steal performance against the Rockets, including a crucial late-game strip of Kevin Durant that fueled an 18-point fourth-quarter rally.
Filling a Vital Role
Head coach Mike Brown has shown trust in Alvarado, playing him in critical moments, including closing out the win against Houston. With Deuce McBride sidelined until the playoffs, Alvarado fills a crucial gap behind Jalen Brunson, providing the Knicks with a reliable defensive presence.
Knicks in the Eastern Conference Race
Currently sitting at 37-21, the Knicks hold the third seed in the Eastern Conference, trailing only the Detroit Pistons and Boston Celtics. They’re locked in a tight race with the Cleveland Cavaliers, carrying a two-game winning streak into their upcoming matchup against Cleveland.
Karl-Anthony Towns has been a consistent force, averaging 19.8 points and 11.9 rebounds per game, leading the league with 39 double-doubles. His recent performances, including a 28-point, 11-rebound game against the Bulls, underscore his importance.
Why Alvarado Matters
While Alvarado might not start or play extended minutes, his defensive energy and clutch play provide New York with another weapon in tight games. His impact, fueled by the fans and his own relentless drive, adds a new dimension to the Knicks as they push for playoff positioning.