• Knicks 113 Utah 109: Now we get it. The plan was to flash some early success and then create more headlines with manufactured drama and a big losing streak. Then, the Knicks would rise off the mat, run of a huge winning streak and make the playoffs.

  Unfortunately, it’s not quite that simple. Yes, the Knicks are now on a winning-streak with their victory Monday, but that is more a function of bad Utah defense than a great performance by New York. Marbury, Randolph and Crawford played incredibly well, but the Knicks still were out-rebounded, commited more fouls and made fewer assists than Utah. But, they shot 53.2% from the field and made 84.6% of their free throws. That bested Utah’s 50.6% and 72.4% and provided the difference.

  Most nights they won’t be so lucky. Don’t read too much into it and don’t expect a repeat when they play again Thursday in Boston.

• Dallas 3 Islanders 2 (OT): The Stars are certainly enjoying their visit to New York. One day after beating the Rangers Dallas duplicated the score by beating the Islanders in OT. Mike Modano had two goals including the game-winner 35 seconds into overtime. It now falls on the Devils Wednesday night to prevent Dallas from a tri-state sweep.

Photograph of Stephon Marbury charging over the Jazz's Deron Williams by Seth Wenig/AP