The New York Knicks played like an exhausted team last night, falling to the Dallas Mavericks 127-109 to end their three game winning streak. After falling behind early, the Knicks could never dig themselves out the hole they created for themselves.
It was a lethargic effort on defense, as they allowed 72 first half points en route to a 21 point deficit. Dallas had a balanced attack on offense and killed the Knicks throughout the game on the offensive boards. Dirk Nowitzki led the way with 23 points, Shawn Marion had 22, and Jason Terry added 21 points off the bench. The Mavericks big men, Tyson Chandler and Brandon Haywood, combined for 21 points and 16 rebounds.
On offense, the Knicks were sloppy and inconsistent. Amare Stoudemire overcame a slow start and put together a monster game with 36 points and 7 rebounds. Carmelo Anthony had a tough night, only going 5-of-15 from the field and finishing with 18 points. The bench only contributed 16 points, 14 of which came from Shawne Williams.
The Knicks are now currently 34-30 and have a few days off before hosting the Indiana Pacers on Sunday at 6 p.m.