Brooklyn Nets vs. New York Knicks 1/21/13: Video Highlights and Recap

Fueled by Joe Johnson's 25-point effort, the Brooklyn Nets continued their winning ways with a crucial 88-85 win against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on Monday afternoon. 

With the victory, Jay-Z's boys are now 25-16 and a gaudy 11-2 under head coach P.J. Carlesimo. 

The Knicks, however, seem to be moving in the opposite direction. 

Carmelo Anthony had 29 points (albeit on 29 shots) and seven assists, but New York fell to 25-14 and has now dropped five of nine in January. 

With this result, the inaugural "Battle for New York" season ends in a 2-2 tie, although with both teams near locks to make the playoffs, there is always the chance they could meet again in April or June. 

For a complete look at today's box score, check out NBA.com. 

Player of the Game: Joe Johnson

You could go several different routes here. Deron Williams had 14 points, 12 assists and five rebounds. Brook Lopez had 14 points and 11 rebounds. Even Kris Humphries double-doubled off the bench.

But Johnson deserves the award. 

The enigmatic shooting guard scored 25 points, knocked down five treys, added five assists and was the only starter with a positive plus/minus. 

More importantly, Johnson knocked down a clutch jumper with 22 seconds left to put Brooklyn ahead for good.

Up Next for Brooklyn

The Nets will head to Minnesota to take on a banged-up Timberwolves squad on Wednesday night. 

Up Next for New York

New York gets a few days rest before traveling to Boston to battle the Celtics on Thursday. Doc Rivers' squad has lost three in a row. 

Follow @t_keen