How it Happened
The Knicks had to wait two extra days to get back on the winning track, but after a blizzard preempted Monday's game, they played with both urgency and poise in a 100-92 victory over Oklahoma City.
Going up against Russell Westbrook (game-high 40 points) and the long, athletic Thunder, New York improved to 4-1 in its last five games with another solid team effort. Carmelo Anthony led the way with 31 points and 10 boards, but his teammates all chipped in to the win over a surging Western Conference playoff contender.
It was a back-and-forth affair through three quarters, with both teams constantly in attack mode. But the Knicks were able to separate themselves in the 4th quarter by playing unselfish basketball and finding the open man. Jose Calderon's eight assists led the team, but the Knicks shared the ball all night and finished with 29 assists to OKC's 10.
New York also hit the glass, with Jason Smith (11 points and 11 rebounds) and Lou Amundson (10 rebounds) joining Melo in double figures in boards. In Tim Hardaway Jr. (14 points on 4 of 6 shooting from three) and Lance Thomas (17 points and five rebounds), Derek Fisher's squad got plenty of punch off the bench to seal the win.
Knick of the Night
Anthony was his usual self all night, but Langston Galloway earns the honors for his all-around performance that included guarding Westbrook, in addition to 18 points, four rebounds, four assists and three steals. The Thunder point guard got his numbers, but Galloway responded with big play after big play and as a result, his team finished on top at the end.
Game Notes
Amar'e Stoudemire (recovery) and Travis Wear (hip) did not dress for the Knicks. Cole Aldrich suffered a contused left shin in the first half and did not return. Kevin Durant (toe) did not dress for Oklahoma City.
Next Up
The Knicks look to keep the momentum building as they fly to Indiana tonight to battle the Pacers tomorrow night on MSG.