KNICKKNACKS: The Knicks snapped a six-game home losing streak to the Jazz, their last win over Utah before Sunday at Madison Square Garden haven come Dec. 17, 1996.

Knicks point Stephon Marbury had 12 assists and 19 points, his 10th double-double of the season and the 23rd time in 24 games this season he has led New York in assists. The Knicks are 8-2 when Marbury has 10 or more assists, 5-9 when he does not.

Ex-Jazz backup point Mark Jackson has the most 10-plus assist games in a single Knicks season, 48 in 1987-88.

FORGET ABOUT IT: ESPN.com and multiple New Jersey newspapers reported Sunday that the Nets have interest in signing former Jazz star Karl Malone, but the likelihood of that happening is about as far-fetched as the Knicks recently thinking the Mailman might come to New York.

TRADE TALK: There also was talk in local papers Sunday about the Nets having possible interest in ex-Jazz and current Toronto Raptors forward Donyell Marshall, the subject of recent trade rumors involving the Miami Heat.

IN THE HOUSE: Former Jazz and Knicks guard John Starks was seen chatting Sunday with actor Adam Sandler, who had a front-row seat. Across from the Jazz bench, tennis legend John McEnroe ate nachos and peanuts on the front row.

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