NYK 105, DET 111: Knicks Comeback Falls Short

After shooting 12 for 43 (27.9 percent) in the first half and trailing by as many as 27 points, Derek Fisher challenged his team: "What are we here for?"

The Knicks responded in the second half, shooting over 58 percent to storm back and take their first lead of the game, 97-95, with 2:16 remaining.

The Pistons would answer, led by two clutch Reggie Jackson 3s, and hang on for the 111-105 victory, but not before New York showed its resolve with a number of standout performances down the stretch. Carmelo Anthony(19 points, 11 rebounds, 8 assists), Robin Lopez (26 points and 16 rebounds) and Arron Afflalo (24 points) exhibited leadership throughout the night, setting the tone for an inspiring comeback with their aggressiveness.

Knick of the Night

Langston Galloway fouled out with less than a minute to go after nearly leading the Knicks to victory. While the veterans' performances were impressive, the second-year guard scored 12 of his 17 points (on 7-of-9 shooting) in the fourth quarter to ignite the rally, including a slick spin move, step-back jumper and a straightaway 3-pointer in the final minutes.

News and Notes

Jose Calderon returned after missing four games with a groin injury, but played just 12 minutes. Galloway (35 minutes) took the lion's share of the point guard duties on the first night of a back-to-back.

Numbers Game

Had New York completed the comeback, it would've been the largest halftime deficit overcome in franchise history.

Next Up

Fisher's squad will have an opportunity to build on the strong second half tomorrow night, when the Memphis Grizzlies make their lone visit to MSG this season.