New York Knicks: Who stepped up against the Utah Jazz on Jan. 19?

Tim Hardaway Jr.

Tim Hardaway Jr. did everything in his power to ensure that the New York Knicks would defeat the Utah Jazz. Not only did he score at virtual will, but he redeemed himself for what nearly became a gaffe that frustrated critics would’ve allowed to overshadow his brilliance.

With their backs against the wall, the Knicks received the type of performance from Hardaway that may define his quietly strong 2017-18 season.

Hardaway torched the Jazz to the tune of 31 points, five rebounds, and three assists in just 27 minutes of action. Still somewhat limited in his return from injury, Hardaway showed no signs of rust against a deep and competitive Utah perimeter.

Not only did Hardaway score in volume, but he shot a blistering 11-of-17 from the field, 6-of-7 from three-point range, and 3-of-5 from the free throw line.

Hardaway’s defining moment arrived late in the fourth quarter. After missing a pair of free throws, he stepped back up to the line and buried two critical shots. With eight fourth quarter points and a personal 8-0 run at the end of the third, Hardaway took over at the most crucial of times.

In the face of adversity, it was the Knicks’ $71 million man who stepped up to lead his team to one of its biggest—and best—wins of the season.