Smith had 18 points at halftime for New York, including a 3-pointer with 18 seconds left in the second quarter to cut the deficit to three.

NOTES: Knicks coach Mike Woodson said in his pre-game press conference he was not concerned about a long-term issue for Anthony, who hurt his knee in the first half Monday against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Woodson did say he would like to reduce Anthony's minutes a little when he returns to cut down on some wear and tear. ... With Anthony out, Kurt Thomas again started and Stoudemire came off the bench. Stoudemire has been given a minutes limit of 30 per game while recovering from knee surgery, but Woodson said that limit could eventually increase. ... Anthony's absence eliminated a battle between the league's top two scorers. Durant, who has won the past three scoring titles, entered the game averaging 28.6 points per game to Anthony's 28.2.