How it Happened
The streak is over.
After 16 straight losses, including a handful of games with only eight healthy bodies, the Knicks returned to Madison Square Garden and delivered a thrilling 99-92 victory over New Orleans.
With Carmelo Anthony and Amar'e Stoudemire back in the fold and a trio of reinforcements on 10-day fighting to stick around, Derek Fisher's squad showed what is capable of at full strength with a gritty performance from start to finish. New York controlled the tempo throughout the night, and stayed composed when the Pelicans closed to within a point in the final minute.
With the Knicks up 93-92, New Orleans sent a double team at Anthony, who had the ball on the right wing looking to score. As the extra defender closed, he whipped a pass to Jose Calderon in the corner for the wide open three. As the ball swished through the net, the Garden exploded.
"Guys stepped up big time," said Melo, who finished with 24 points and nine rebounds. After signing his second consecutive 10-day contract, Langston Galloway turned in another stellar performance, with 21 points, five rebounds and three assists. Stoudemire added 14 points and six rebounds in 20 minutes.
Knicks of the Night
It's a tie between Anthony and Galloway. The pair combined to shoot 6 for 11 from downtown, keeping the Knicks offense rolling as New Orleans kept attacking down the stretch.
Game Notes
Cleanthony Early (ankle) and Andrea Bargnani (calf) were inactive for the Knicks.
Next Up
The Knicks travel to Philly to face the 76ers on Wednesday night on MSG.