Knicks defense slips again in 2nd straight loss

Mar 22, 2023; Miami, Florida, USA; New York Knicks guard RJ Barrett (9) passes the basketball as Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo (13) and forward Jimmy Butler (22) defend during the first quarter at Miami-Dade Arena. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

Still reeling from the jarring loss to a shorthanded Minnesota team and the passing away of NBA legend Willis Reed, the New York Knicks had a lethargic start on their two-game road trip.

For the second straight game, the Knicks allowed their opponents to wax hot from the outside. The result was another heartbreaker — a 127-120 loss to rivals Miami Heat Wednesday night that put a dent in their playoff push.

The Knicks have allowed 57%…