How it Happened
The Knicks returned home from the road having snapped a losing skid that involved a handful of heartbreaking late-game losses. Tonight, they went blow-for-blow with the best team in the Eastern Conference for 48 minutes.
But after Carmelo Anthony's driving left-handed layup to tie the game at 86 with under a minute left in regulation, the Knicks' offense went cold, as Toronto pulled away for a 95-90 win in overtime.
Tim Hardaway Jr. set the tone early, scoring nine points in the game's first six minutes en route to 18 (including 9 of 9 from the free throw line) for the night. Amar'e Stoudemire (10 points, eight rebounds) and Jose Calderon (13 points, five rebounds, five assists) also scored in double figures.
Knick of the Night
Melo wins the honor for a strong all-around performance (34 points and nine rebounds), but it was his play on the Knicks' final possession that stood out. As he took the ball at the top of the key, he opted not to pull up for three, instead using a hesitation move and driving all the way to the basket for the tough finish.
Game Notes
J.R. Smith (heel) did not dress for the game. He'll be re-evaluated going forward.
Next Up
The Knicks return to the Garden to face Dirk Nowitzki and the Mavs on Tuesday.