Jeremy Lin and Steve Novak Lead New York Knicks to Victory over Defending Champs

The New York Knicks were out to prove that they are a resilient team and are capable of bouncing back from losses.

They proved it Sunday afternoon by beating the defending NBA champions 104-97 in an electrifying Madison Square Garden.

Jeremy Lin successfully put his first loss in the rearview mirror and helped lead the Knicks to a win against the Dallas Mavericks.

Steve Novak had no points heading into the fourth quarter. When that final period eventually came Novak contributed greatly as he began shooting lights-out from the field.

Novak scored all 14 of his points in the first five minutes of the final quarter. Since Lin has been the starter, Novak has averaged 12 points a game.

Lin once again brought the fans at MSG to their feet scoring 28 points, adding five steals and setting a career high with 14 assists,

New York's newest addition, J.R. Smith began the game hot draining threes and hearing the roar of the crowd.

He showed fatigue throughout the game however, but still finished with 15 points. With 30 seconds remaining he sprinted up the court and was the recipient of a pass by Lin that gave the Knicks a five point lead.

Landry Fields added 13 points while Tyson Chandler had a quiet double-double—scoring 14 points and grabbing 10 rebounds.

Amar'e Stoudemire finished around his season average with 11 points and seven rebounds.

This game had its share of runs.

At different points in the game, both teams held a 12-point lead.

It was New York however, who had the final run, outscoring Dallas 32-22 in the fourth quarter. With just over two minutes remaining in the third quarter, New York was trailing 75-65.

The Knicks were able to show more will down the stretch in this game. 

The Knicks are in the midst of an amazing run that has captivated not only New York but the world. Lin is recognized at a global level now and the "Linsanity" seems to only increase after every game.

The Knicks are now 16-16 and winners of eight of their last nine.

They take on the New Jersey Nets Monday night at the Garden.