The Knicks, led by Jalen Brunson, exploited all their physicality, dominating in rebounding (52-42) and in the area (44-36 points count in the paint) and breaking the Kings’ resistance. Domantas Sabonis scores a double double as usual with 21 points and 14 rebounds but remains empty in the decisive 4th quarter, De’Aaron Fox closes at 20 but shooting 5/19 from the field. New York allowed their opponents 35.3% from the field and 27% from three, the result of a team defensive performance bordering on perfection.
Fresh from 45 points scored at the Blazers’ home, Jalen Brunson repeats himself on the pitch, which is much more difficult than Sacramento. In a game with strong defensive features, the New York point guard scored 42 points while shooting 17/28 from the field. Brunson thus becomes only the 4th player in a Knicks jersey to score two consecutive performances of over 40 points after Bernard King, Patrick Ewing and Carmelo Anthony.