New York Knicks Team Report - February 12

(Basketball News) - The New York Knicks headed into the All-Star break on a losing note on Wednesday, as they found themselves on the wrong end of a 106-98 decision against the New Orleans Hornets.

Stephon Marbury netted 29 points and handed out 10 assists for the Knicks, who have dropped two straight following a five-game winning streak. Keith Van Horn contributed 14 points and 13 rebounds in the setback.

New York played without forward Kurt Thomas after the forward was suspended one game for head-butting Dallas’ Josh Howard during Tuesday’s loss.

The Knicks have lost three straight and five of their last six at New Orleans.

Lenny Wilkens said last night that DerMarr Johnson will be signed to a second 10-day contract when his first one expires tomorrow. The former lottery pick is 0-for-6 in three appearances, including a non-garbage-time stint Tuesday in Dallas when he was 0-for-4.

New York, which is 2-7 on the road against Central Division teams, has won four of seven and seven of 11 on the road and are 10-16 away from home this season.