Deron Williams Outduels Jeremy Lin as Knicks Lose in Carmelo Anthony's Return

Deron Williams was determined to show that Jeremy Lin was not the only point guard in MSG on Monday night.

Despite fouling out in the fourth quarter, Williams scored 38 points and had six assists.

The New York Knicks started the game strong, storming out to a 13-3 lead.

However, the New Jersey Nets took the lead with over five minutes remaining in the second quarter and never looked back. 

They outscored the Knicks by 11 points in the second quarter and 10 points in the third quarter to win the game 100-92. 

Aside from Williams, the Nets relied on their three point shooting, going 15-for-31 from three-point range.

The Knicks, who trailed 80-61 with 1:09 left in the third quarter,began the final quarter on a 12-3 run, but could not complete the comeback.

Lin had a decent game, but it was not nearly enough for New York to come out with a victory against New Jersey.

He did not shoot particularly well, only going 7-for-18 from the field, but he still was able to score 21 points, dish out nine assists, and make four steals.

He was not able to stage another comeback victory, however.

In the middle of the fourth quarter, Lin seemed to become hesitant and reluctant to make his plays.

With under four minutes left in the game, he began to make them again. Unfortunately for New York, it was too late as they faced a double digit deficit.

Carmelo Anthony had a mediocre first game back in action, scoring 11 points and adding six assists. 

He looked a bit uncomfortable shooting at times, but he should become more comfortable as he gets back into the swing of things.

Baron Davis also returned on Monday night. He played eight minutes and scored three points.

Amar'e Stoudemire had 17 points, while Tyson Chandler scored 14 points in the Knicks' loss.

The Knicks face a difficult task on Wednesday night against the Atlanta Hawks. They then travel to Miami to take on the Heat Thursday.