The Sports Network
Washington, DC (Sports Network) - Steve Novak connected on all seven of his
three-point attempts and the New York Knicks claimed their first victory of
the preseason, defeating the Washington Wizards, 108-101.
Novak, who led the league in three-point percentage last season, led all
scorers with 21 points off the bench. J.R. Smith contributed 20 points and
dished out six assists for the Knicks, who lost to the eventual NBA champion
Miami Heat in the first round of the playoffs last season.
Star forward Carmelo Anthony started for New York and poured in 17 points in
just 21 minutes of play. Amar'e Stoudemire was held out of action after
bruising his knee in practice.
Jordan Crawford led the Wizards with 17 points and Martell Webster finished
with a double-double, scoring 12 points and pulling in 10 rebounds. Rookie
Bradley Beal once again proved worthy of his high draft selection, finishing
with 15 points, five rebounds and five assists for Washington.
Newly acquired center Emeka Okafor was suffering from food poisoning and did
not play for Washington, which has lost its first two preseason games.
After trailing 38-21 to start the second quarter, the Wizards went on a
remarkable 22-0 run to take the lead. Washington was outscored 29-24 in the
third period and 26-21 in the fourth, however.
GAME NOTES:
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