Brunson Averts a Sporting Tragedy for the Knicks: “We Needed to Win”
With 26 points, Brunson leads the Knicks to victory after four straight losses against Kawhi Leonard’s Clippers: relief for the former Maverick in the postgame
The New York Knicks can breathe again. After four consecutive losses, Mike Brown’s team gets back on track by defeating the Los Angeles Clippers 123-111 at Madison Square Garden. A win that felt essential – more for morale than for the standings – and one that shows a group capable of responding when things get tough.
Once again, the face of the night was Jalen Brunson. The Knicks’ leader guided the team with 26 points, shooting 9/12 from the field, 4/5 from three, and adding 7 assists. Strong numbers, but above all a steady presence in the game’s key moments. After the game, Brunson didn’t hide the sense of difficulty and urgency that, for the first time this season, had settled into the locker room.
For most of the game we played with a bit of desperation. We needed to win. The way we fought, the way we played – even when we were down in the first half – was real Knicks basketball.
Jalen Brunson
Alongside him, Karl-Anthony Towns delivered one of his most complete performances of the season: 20 points, 11 rebounds, and 7 assists, a season high. KAT didn’t just score – he made the offense flow, involving teammates and reading the defense effectively. OG Anunoby also made a significant impact with 20 points on 8/10 shooting.
Off the bench, the Knicks got the spark they needed from Jordan Clarkson, who chipped in 12 valuable points, providing rhythm and intensity while the starters rested.
One of the most telling stats of the night was 31 assists. The ball moved, the Clippers’ defense was often left scrambling, and New York finally showed a fluid, collective style of play – what Brunson called “real Knicks basketball.”
New York remains without Josh Hart, sidelined with an ankle issue, but this win could mark a turning point. On Friday, a long road trip begins, starting in Phoenix.