Jalen Brunson’s remarkable 34-point performance, accompanied by a career-best 29 points from Miles McBride, propelled the New York Knicks to their fourth consecutive victory, triumphing over the Golden State Warriors 119-112 on Monday night.
Establishing an 18-4 lead early in the game, the Knicks maintained their advantage throughout, securing only their fifth win in their last 19 matchups against the Warriors.
Coach Tom Thibodeau commended his team’s resilience, emphasizing their collective effort: “This team has demonstrated all year there’s a lot of fight, a lot of heart, a lot of toughness and a lot of togetherness to the group.” He praised their defensive efforts, rebounding, and ball movement, highlighting their exceptional teamwork.
Josh Hart contributed significantly with a triple-double, tallying 10 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists while playing the entirety of the game. Thibodeau lauded Hart’s toughness, emphasizing his pivotal role in the victory.
Donte DiVincenzo added 18 points to the Knicks’ total.
Despite Stephen Curry’s 27-point effort for the Warriors, along with Trayce Jackson-Davis’ 19 points and 10 rebounds, Golden State struggled to overcome the Knicks’ dominance, falling to a 17-18 home record for the season.
Reflecting on the loss, Curry expressed uncertainty about their struggles at home, stating, “I don’t know what the answer is.” Coach Steve Kerr acknowledged the team’s lack of discipline throughout the game, acknowledging the challenge of overcoming an early deficit.
Jalen Brunson’s scoring prowess played a crucial role in maintaining the Knicks’ lead, averaging an impressive 40.3 points in the first three games of the Western swing.
The Knicks were without forward OG Anunoby due to a flare-up of his surgically repaired right elbow. Thibodeau provided an update, indicating that Anunoby’s MRI results were clear, but he remains day-to-day and is unlikely to join the team for their final game of the trip against Denver.
With Anunoby sidelined, McBride seized the opportunity, making his 10th career start and delivering an outstanding performance, particularly on the defensive end against Curry. Thibodeau praised McBride’s contribution, emphasizing the added shooting presence he brought to the team.
