How it Happened
After defeating the Bulls on consecutive nights, the Knicks ran into a Cleveland team motivated to bounce back from Thursday night's loss in Brooklyn. And behind a triple-double from LeBron James (27 points, 11 rebounds, 10 assists), the Cavs flexed their muscles en route to a 107-93 victory.
New York responded to a 24-point halftime deficit with a 40-point third quarter, but it wasn't enough against the Eastern Conference leaders; after a brief rest to start the fourth, James would re-enter to help seal the deal.
Carmelo Anthony poured in 23 of his 28 points in the second half to help cut the deficit to 10, but that was the closest the Knicks would get.
Knick of the Night
Kristaps Porzingis accounted for 12 of New York's 32 first-half points and would finish with 19, six rebounds and three assists. In a tough matchup with Kevin Love (28 points and 12 rebounds), the rookie held his own and didn't back down all night.
News and Notes
Langston Galloway did not play in the first half, but the second-year guard took advantage of 19 minutes after halftime to finish with five points and four assists, in addition to his trademark tough defense...Derrick Williams finished with 11 points, shooting 7 for 9 from the free throw line.
Next Up
The Knicks head to New Orleans for a Monday night matchup with the Pelicans.