The Knicks had some life in the third quarter as they went on a 17-0 run to cut a 19-point deficit to just two. However, as with most of the night, they struggled to stay consistent on defense as they let the Jazz regain momentum and pull away late.
Utah made 19 of 34 threes, including six from Collin Sexton, and dominated the rebounding battle 52-40. Their big lineup featuring a frontcourt of Lauri Markannen and Walker Kessler was too much for the Knicks to contain down low, as the Jazz scored 46 points in the paint.
The Jazz made light work of the Knicks’ poor defense, an area that has plagued them all season. It will be tough to slide on that end of the floor until Miles McBride and Precious Achiuwa can return to the floor.