The Knicks trailed the Mavericks by 12 points in the third quarter, and then the unlikely trio of Jeremy Lin (28 points, 14 assists), Steve Novak (14 points, four three-pointers, one ‘Belt” celebration below) and JR Smith (15 points in his first game with the team) took over, leading New York to a stirring 104-97 triumph.

Once again, Linsanity prevailed. While he did have seven turnovers in 44 minutes – I’m not sure if he came out at all in the second half – he also had five steals. He continues to make plays, especially late in games. You couldn’t walk away from this game thinking he can’t stick in this league.

Dirk abused Amare to the tune of 34 points, but Nowitzki didn’t fare nearly as well against the pesky defense of Jared Jeffries in the 4th quarter. The Knicks are back at .500 (16-16) and let the countdown to Lin vs. LeBron begin. They play Thursday.

First, New York must get by New Jersey Monday. They’ll need Carmelo, and probably Baron Davis, too. Lin didn’t play great in his last back-to-back (vs. Minnesota). And remember, Deron Williams is sick of Linsanity.

[Videos & gif via @Jose3030]