By Joel Bartilotta
The Dallas Mavericks defeated the New York Knicks, 80-75, in the Orlando Summer League at Amway Center on Saturday.
Despite the fact that there were five ties and 11 lead changes in this close-fought game, Dallas made a late run to pull out an opening victory in the Summer League. In fact, the Mavericks outscored the Knicks, 21-14, in the fourth quarter to overcome a small deficit. Taking care of the ball killed New York, as they committed 21 turnovers, while forcing just 10 from Dallas.
Chasson Randle led the Knicks (0-1) in scoring, dropping 14 points in 22 minutes. Luke Kornet tallied 12 points, three rebounds and three assists off the bench. Xavier Rathan-Mayes finished with 11 points, four rebounds and five assists. Louis Labeyrie amassed 10 points, six rebounds and two assists on a perfect 4-of-4 shooting.
Dwight Buycks was the player of the game for the Mavericks (1-0), as he scored a game-high 16 points to add to his four rebounds, six assists and seven steals. Cat Barber totaled 14 points, six rebounds and five assists. Journeyman Brandon Paul accrued 12 points, six rebounds and four assists.
Both teams return to action on Sunday, as the Mavericks play the Orlando Magic and the Knicks face off with the Oklahoma City Thunder.
