Gallinari’s Big Game Leads Knicks to Big Win Over Hawks

Gallinari once again showcased the smooth jumper and smart play that made him the sixth overall pick in last summer’s NBA Draft as he poured in a career-best 17 points to help lead the New York Knicks to a 109-105 victory over the visiting Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday.

The Italian rookie’s breakout performance was just what was needed for the Knicks, whose jersey’s read ‘Nueva York’ across the chest in honor of Latino Night at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks snapped a three-game skid as they continue on their journey towards an Eastern Conference playoff berth.

Gallinari had the fans on the edge of their seats almost every time he touched the ball because it most likely meant an outside shot or strong drive was on the way. Despite solid perimeter defense from the Hawks, the 6-foo-10 forward shot 6-for-11 from the field and an impressive 4-for-5 from downtown.

“He’s just one of those guys that has an eye for the basket,” said Larry Hughes, who led New York with 23 points. “A couple plays he didn’t create any space but he shot it and knew it was good. It’s good to have a guy like that on your team who can obviously space the floor.”

Gallinari, who has become an instant fan favorite for his energetic play on both ends of the court, played 22 minutes in the absence of the injured Jeffries (knee) and Robinson (ankle). Gallinari, still not 100 percent from a back injury, entered the game averaging 14 minutes per contest, but was called upon to play big minutes to jumpstart his team.

After checking in late in the opening period, Gallinari played the entire second quarter and helped the Knicks overcome a sluggish start. But his major contributions came during his second stint off the bench when he scored nine points during a 13-5 run that gave the Knicks a 12-point lead early in the fourth.

“I think his confidence is not about him playing, it’s just about his back,” said Chris Duhon, who had 14 points and five assists. “I just feel the more he’s out there, the more he’s in contact and feels that his back is not hurting. He’s playing more confident.”

Gallinari’s effort off the bench helped the Knicks overcome the loss of Robinson, who usually provides the second-half offensive bursts. But all five starters also contributed with double-figure scoring in the much-needed win.

Al Harrington finished just shy of his season average with 20 points and added 10 rebounds, while Wilson Chandler, starting in place of Jeffries, scored 20. David Lee added 13 points and 14 boards for his 24th consecutive double-double and league-leading 49th this season.

“The scoring was pretty balanced, the ball was moving and everybody was taking what the defense gave to,” Duhon said. “It was a huge win for us and we need to kind of get back on track.”

The Knicks will return home on Saturday for a meeting against Charlotte before hitting the road for five straight games away from The Garden.