Carmelo Anthony's 37 points helps Knicks stave off Celtics
The New York Knicks did anything they wanted in the first half, holding a lead which peaked as high as 17. The second half was a different story. The Celtics retook the lead in the third quarter for the first time since the opening minutes of the game. Boston led by as much as 10 in the second half, but New York rallied back in the fourth. Two free throws by Carmelo Anthony with 16 seconds left in the game sealed it for the Knicks as Boston failed to score on two straight possessions.
Rajon Rondo was indisputably the best player for Boston, scoring 31 points - one point shy of his career high - and dishing out 13 assists. Brandon Bass' Celtics debut had to impress Boston fans, as he scored 20 points and grabbed 11 rebounds. Ray Allen and Kevin Garnett scored 20 and 15 respectively. Paul Pierce sat out the game with a heel injury.
For the Knicks, Carmelo Anthony led all scorers with 37 points and added 8 rebounds. Amare Stoudemire added 21 points and Toney Douglas had 19. New acquistion Tyson Chandler had 7 points and 6 blocked shots.
