Knicks 106, Mavericks 102: Scenes from the (French) Prince Who Was Promised

The story of Friday night’s contest between the Knicks and Maverick was nearly an easily-penned story of the heroics of Luka Doncic (38 points) and former Knick Kristaps Porzingis (28 points).

The longest-tenured Knick, however, refused to let that happen. I’m referring to Frank Ntilikina, the 21-year-old former bust who has risen like a goddamn phoenix since being inserted into the starting lineup a few games ago. Mr. Ntillmatic led the ‘Bockers to a thrilling 106-102 win on the strength of an all-around wonderful performance: 14 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 steals and 3 blocks.

Frank put the Knicks on his back when some shoddy play by the reserves left New York nursing a fourth-quarter deficit. This block-and-three stretch from Frank — perhaps the single finest moment from any Knick this season — put the Mavs on notice that the Knicks would not go quietly.

Frank then hit a step-back jumper to give the Knicks a 92-90 lead.

He missed his next few shots, but his defense was superb even by Frank standards.

Just for fun, let’s look at that one block from another angle.

We would be remiss to neglect the efforts of Marcus Morris, who led the Knicks with 29 points.

Julius Randle wasn’t necessarily at his best throughout, but he did come up with 21 points and the game-sealing offensive rebound.

(Nice box-out, KP.)

LOOK AT THIS MOVE!

We love you, Frank. Recap to come.