Knicks 139, Cavaliers 134 (OT): Scenes from the return of the two-PG lineup

The New York Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers played a tense, back-and-forth game Monday night. Cleveland was ahead most of the game, but the Knicks had the trump card in Marcus Morris (26 points), who was nails in the clutch for the second straight game, propelling the ‘Bockers to a 139-134 overtime win.

Colin Sexton, who seemingly only performs well against the Knicks, had 29 points including this three to send it to overtime. Prepare for a masterclass of defensive communication between Elfrid Payton and Julius Randle.

To be fair, Elfrid posted a triple-double — 17 points, 11 rebounds and 15 assists — in his return from suspension. He was nearly matched by his backup for the evening, the suddenly resurgent Dennis Smith Jr., who chipped in 15 points, 6 dimes and 4 steals.

And in an revelatory moment that felt like it was months in the making, head coach Mike Miller realized that he could use two point guards at the same time, pairing Dennis and Elf with Frank Ntilikina, who helped slow down Cleveland’s offense with his trademark Gallic hustle D.

Frank also chipped on the other end, with 9 points, including this clutch three.

Even Kevin Knox — 12 points, 4 rebounds in 17 minutes — had a good game. I wish we played the Cavs every night.

Recap to come.