New York Knicks seal series win over Brooklyn Nets

The New York Knicks beat the Brooklyn Nets for the third time this season, securing a 109-98 victory and a series win over their local rivals.

The visitors were without top scorer Carmelo Anthony, who has a shoulder injury, but still managed to open up a big lead early on.

JR Smith and Amar'e Stoudemire were among the points in the first quarter, helping the Knicks to an 11-point lead after the opening 12-minute spell.

Mason Plumlee and Marcus Thornton finished strongly as they tried to give the Nets some hope late on, but Jeremy Tyler was able to make sure the Knicks stayed ahead.

The result leaves Brooklyn fifth in the Eastern Conference standings, while New York, who can no longer make the playoffs, stay ninth.