Knicks Use Buzzer-Beater to Edge Suns

J.R. Smith sank a baseline 21-footer at the buzzer after a Phoenix turnover with a second to play, giving the depleted New York Knicks a 99-97 victory over the Suns on Wednesday night.

Smith's tough jumper from 15 feet had tied it at 97 with 10.6 seconds left. Then, after the turnover, Jason Kidd inbounded to Smith, who got the shot off as he sailed toward the out of bounds line. Smith scored 27 and Kidd 23.

Jared Dudley had a career-high 36 for Phoenix, including two free throws that put the Suns ahead 97-95 with 34.5 seconds to go.

New York was without the NBA's No. 2 scorer Carmelo Anthony (hyperextended knee) and Raymond Felton (sprained finger), both hurt in the Christmas day loss to the Lakers in Los Angeles.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)