New York Knicks' bench fuels win over Orlando Magic (Highlights)
Dec 22, 2016; New York, NY, USA; New York Knicks power forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) controls the ball against Orlando Magic power forward Serge Ibaka (7) during the first quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Knicks won their 11th home game of the season Thursday night against the Orlando Magic behind the strong play of their bench.

  • New York Knicks 106 (16-13)
  • Orlando Magic 95 (13-18)
  • NBA, Final, Box Score
  • Madison Square Garden, New York, NY

Thursday night’s game was completely out of the ordinary for the New York Knicks. Carmelo Anthony and Kristaps Porzingis combined for just 27 points on 10-28 shooting. The odd part? The team still scored 100 points and beat the Orlando Magic.

Against a lesser opponent, the bench stepped up. The bench that was supposed to be a weakness this season.

Kyle O’Quinn had his third double-double of the season logging 14 points and 16 rebounds (5 offensive) in 24 minutes.

Willy Hernangomez had one of his best game as a Knick with 15 points and 5 rebounds.

But the star, of course, was Brandon Jennings. He had a season-high 12 assists in just 22 minutes and finished with the highest plus-minus rating of +15.

So much for the bench being a weakness.

Other notes from tonight:

Derrick Rose looked good. He had 19 points and 3 assists in 26 minutes.

Missing from tonight’s signature bench performance? Lance Thomas took a dreaded DNP-Coach’s Decision.

 
I'm ESNY's Executive Editor for EliteSportsNY.com. I cover the New York Knicks and Brooklyn Nets. Email: chip.murphy@elitesportsny.com Chip Murphy covers the NBA for Elite Sports NY. You can find him on Twitter @ChipperMurphy.