The Cleveland Cavaliers (52 - 21) defeated the host New York Knicks (30 - 44) 107 - 93, Saturday evening at Madison Square Garden. Coming off an embarrassing loss to Brooklyn and despite missing Kyrie Irving (rest), the Cavs came into this game focused and ready to play. Cleveland led the whole way, after building a substantial 56 - 32 lead by halftime. The Knicks came into the second half a lot stronger, out - scoring the Cavs 61 - 51, but it was still not enough to get within striking distance, as Cleveland would not relent. LeBron James notched a triple - double as he took over most of the ball handling duties, due to the absence of Kyrie. James totaled 27 points, 11 rebounds, 10 assists, two blocked shots and one steal, in 36 minutes of action. Kevin Love also stepped up, finishing with 28 points, 12 rebounds and two assists, in 34 minutes. The Cavs did an excellent job rebounding and held New York to only 42 percent shooting, from the field. Carmelo Anthony was up for the challenge, as he led his squad with 28 points, nine rebounds, two steals and one assist, in 39 minutes. Kristaps Porzingis followed up his big game with another strong performance, with 19 points, six rebounds, three assists and one steal, in 40 minutes. Derrick Williams was the only other Knicks player to score in double digits. Williams chipped in 11 points, along with eight rebounds, two assists and one steal, in 24 minutes off the bench. Next, the Knicks will visit New Orleans to face - off against the Pelicans on Monday. The Cavaliers will host the Rockets on Tuesday.
["TeamStat(G,'Knicks') has 42 Percentage of field goals ,has 44 Losses ,has 93 Total points ,has 30 Wins ."
 "TeamStat(G,'Cavaliers') has 21 Percentage of field goals ,has 107 Losses ,has 52 Total points ."]