Knicks defeat Mavericks 104-97

The New York Knicks played the Dallas Mavericks today at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks were looking to get a win after their lost to the New Orleans Hornets. Before the game the Knicks announced that Carmelo Anthony (groin) and Bill Walker (elbow) would miss the game with injuries. The Knicks would then announce that Baron Davis and JR Smith would suit up and be closer to making their Knick debuts.

This game started with the Knicks struggling, but they quickly found their rhythm as they scored 32 points in the first quarter. That quarter was full of energy and provided the Knicks fans with the joy and happiness they want. Jeremy Lin took over this game when the Knicks were trailing by 12. He was able to create for others and he hit some big shots. Lin scored 28 points and dished out a career high 14 assists today. He continues to lead this team and is providing the added punch the Knicks have lacked this season.

The Knicks new member JR Smith had a great game as he scored 15 points off the bench. Smith hit 3 three-pointers in the first half and helped the Knicks get their energy up. But the hero today had to be Steve Novak who scored all of his 14 points in the fourth quarter to lead the Knicks to the win over the Mavericks. Novak was huge in the aspect that he was able to hit big shots when the Knicks needed points.

Amare Stoudemire scored 11 points and grabbed 7 rebounds today. Stoudemire was very quiet on the offensive end, but he was effective on the offensive boards as he gabbed 4 offensive rebounds. He was suspect on the defensive end, but when guarding Dirk Nowitzki that can be very difficult. Jeremy Lin and Landry Fields had a combined for 9 steals and played very well on the defensive end. Both have played well together and complement each other well.

The Knicks will now have to face the New Jersey Nets tomorrow night and are wanting another win on their home floor. This win shows that the Knicks can compete against the elite teams in this league. This team is now really dangerous every night and every team in the league will now want to beat them. This game was fun to watch and even better to enjoy since the Knicks were able to win 104-97.