How it Happened
With Carmelo Anthony sidelined due to back spasms, the Knicks faced a tall task in Dallas against one of the elite Western Conference teams. J.R. Smith’s theatrics nearly helped New York knock off the Mavericks in a game that featured key players involved in the summer blockbuster trade. The Knicks trailed 95-93 with seven seconds on the game clock and Smith sunk a difficult step-back jumper from 23 feet to tie the game and send the contest into overtime.
Dirk Nowitzki scored four key points and Dallas outscored New York 14-7 in the overtime session to capture the 109-102 victory at American Airlines Center.
The Knicks held a lead heading into the fourth quarter and a four-point advantage with five minutes remaining in regulation. New York hit 50 percent from the arc and limited Dallas to just 12.9 percent on 31 attempts.
Former Knick, Tyson Chandler posted 17 points and 25 rebounds while Nowitzki scored 24 of his game-high 30 points in the second half. The defeat dropped the Knicks to 4-12 on the season and the Mavericks improved to 11-5.
Knick of the Night Jose Calderon was spectacular in his return to Big D. The Spaniard connected on 7-of-9 attempts from the 3-point line and posted a double-double with 21 points and 10 boards to go along with four assists.
Game Notes
Anthony provided an update to his injury (back spasms) situation while New York squared off against Dallas. Read the latest information surrounding Anthony’s status here.
Next Up
The Knicks will jump on a plane for Oklahoma City where they will conclude the three-game road trip on Friday night against the Thunder.