New York Knicks avoid disaster in Brooklyn while Melo sits (Highlights) 2
Feb 1, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; New York Knicks center Joakim Noah (13) and forward Carmelo Anthony (7) and forward Kristaps Porzingis (6) react from the bench during the fourth quarter against the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

The New York Knicks squeaked out a road win win against the Brooklyn Nets as Carmelo Anthony watched the fourth quarter from the bench.

  • New York Knicks 95 (22-29)
  • Brooklyn Nets 90 (9-40)
  • NBA, Box Score, Final
  • Barclays Center, New York City, New York
The New York Knicks didn’t take their first lead of the game until 79-78 with 5:42 remaining in the fourth quarter. Carmelo Anthony shot 6 of 22 from the field and posted only 15 points. Fortunately, they were playing the worst team in the NBA.

The Brooklyn Nets led 45-38 at halftime and 69-64 at the end of the third quarter. Then they did everything they could to give away the game. The Knicks outscored their “rival” 31-21 in the final period and escaped Brooklyn without a disastrous loss.

New York made that fourth quarter run with Anthony on the bench. It was led by their second unit, specifically Willy Hernangomez, who put on a show with his footwork in the post.

The rookie logged his fifth double-double of the season (16 points, 16 rebounds) and outplayed Nets center, Brook Lopez.

Key Player

Sasha Vujacic had not one, but two four point plays for the Knicks tonight. He had a season-high 12 points in 22 big minutes off the bench.

Key Stat

The Knicks weren’t able to lean on one of their strengths tonight. They were just 19-31 from the free throw line. For the season, New York averages 78.8 percent as a team from the charity stripe. That mark is good for tenth in the Association.