Anthony scores 25, Knicks beat Magic 113-106

NEW YORK (AP) -- Carmelo Anthony scored 25 points and the New York Knicks extended their season-high winning streak to three games with a 113-106 victory over the Orlando Magic on Friday night.

Jason Smith added a season-best 19 points for the Knicks, who improved to 8-36. Lance Thomas had 16 points, and Langston Galloway 15; both are in the midst of their second 10-day contract.

Nikola Vucevic led the way for the Magic (15-31) with 34 points and 18 rebounds. Elfrid Payton finished with 11 assists.

Orlando led 96-94 with 4:01 left after Tobias Harris completed a three-point play, but Galloway gave the Knicks the lead right back with a 3-pointer.

The Magic reclaimed the advantage on Vucevic's basket, making it 98-97 with 3:31 remaining. But Anthony's driving layup put New York back on top and the Knicks went on a 6-0 run that as capped by Thomas' basket with 1:55 left.

Payton's driving layup got the Magic close, making it a three-point game at 103-100 with 1:47 remaining. But the Knicks then went on a 9-2 run that sealed the victory.

TIP-INS

Orlando: Vucevic recorded his 26th double-double, which leads the NBA.

New York: Anthony isn't downplaying the opportunity to start in the NBA All-Star game. "I still get excited for these moments," he said. "It's a blessing to be able to represent New York here. I never thought I would be in an All-Star game here in New York. I never thought New York would get it again. But for the fans that vote me in, I honor that, I truly appreciate that. I'm (at a) loss words when it comes to that. It's definitely an honor and a blessing to be able to go out there and represent New York in the All-Star weekend. For me to be voted is a special feeling." ... Jose Calderon injured his left knee at the 7:11 mark of the third quarter after Payton bumped into him. Calderon left hobbling to the locker room, and the Knicks announced he had a bruised knee. He finished with four points.

UP NEXT

Orlando: The Magic host the Indiana Pacers on Sunday.

New York: The Knicks hit the road against the Charlotte Hornets on Saturday.

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