Knicks defeat Pistons 102-87

This afternoon the New York Knicks defeated the Detroit Pistons 102-87, earning their 25th victory of the season.

Carmelo Anthony led the team with 26 points and 4 assist. His performance today was really important simply because he was able to get the team off to a nice start. Anthony continues to be a nice force for the Knicks this season.

Overall the Knicks really had a nice team game. Five players were able to score in double figures with Amare Stoudemire scoring 17 points off the bench. Stoudemire really was able to draw fouls today, as he made 11 of 12 free throws. This was a nice performance by Stoudemire as he continues to improve. He did play 20 minutes and really had a nice impact on the game.

JR Smith scored 16 points off the bench as he continues a nice season. Smith also grabbed 6 rebounds and dished out 4 assist in his 38 minutes on the floor. Steve Novak also scored 13 points off the bench and also made 3 three-pointers. Both players really were able to impact the game at a time when the Knicks needed some scoring.

The Knicks were up by 20 points in this game and almost allowed the Pistons to regain control. But the Knicks were able to hit shots and force some timely turnovers to win this game. The rebounding battle was won by the Knicks 44-36 as they really crashed the boards today.

In his season debut, Iman Shumpert played hard in his 15 minutes. Shumpert scored 8 points and recorded a steal in his return. Shumpert really looked good on both ends of the floor. His timing was an issue at times, but that was to be expected.

This was a nice performance by the team today as they continue to get wins early in this season.

Photo Credit: Jamie McDonald/Getty Images

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