On December 22, the New York Knicks faced the New Orleans Pelicans in a thrilling NBA regular-season matchup. With Jalen Brunson scoring a remarkable 39 points and dishing out 6 assists, the Knicks secured a 104-93 comeback victory, extending their winning streak to three games. Meanwhile, the Pelicans suffered their sixth consecutive loss, winning only one of their last 16 games.
Recent Performance Comparison
The Knicks entered the game with a solid 17-10 record, riding the momentum of victories over the Magic and Timberwolves. On the other hand, the Pelicans, sitting at the bottom of the Western Conference with a dismal 5-23 record, struggled to find form. In their previous encounter this season, the Knicks dominated with a 118-85 victory.
In this matchup, the Pelicans were missing key players Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and Jose Alvarado, while the Knicks played without Mitchell Robinson and McKaller. Both teams faced significant lineup challenges.
Game Highlights
First Quarter: Neck-and-Neck Battle
The game began as a tightly contested affair, with both teams exchanging blows. The first quarter ended in a 28-28 stalemate.
Second Quarter: Knicks’ Offensive Struggles
The Knicks faltered offensively in the second quarter, managing just 17 points. They trailed 45-49 at halftime. Despite this, Jalen Brunson contributed 10 points in the first half, while Karl-Anthony Towns struggled with just 5 points. Trey Murphy shone for the Pelicans, scoring 14 points in the half.
Third Quarter: Brunson’s Explosion
Returning from halftime, Jalen Brunson took over the game, scoring 16 points on 6-of-7 shooting in the third quarter. This offensive surge helped the Knicks outscore the Pelicans 33-26, taking a 78-75 lead.
Fourth Quarter: Knicks Dominate
In the final quarter, the Knicks maintained their momentum, limiting the Pelicans to just 18 points. They sealed the game with a 26-18 run, clinching a 104-93 victory.
Key Stats
Knicks:
- Jalen Brunson: 39 points, 6 assists
- Karl-Anthony Towns: 11 points, 10 rebounds, 4 assists
- Mikal Bridges: 18 points, 3 assists
- OG Anunoby: 16 points, 5 rebounds, 3 steals
- Josh Hart: 14 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists
Pelicans:
- Trey Murphy: 26 points, 6 rebounds
- CJ McCollum: 13 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists
- Dejounte Murray: 14 points, 9 rebounds, 8 assists
- Larry Nance Jr.: 9 points, 8 rebounds
- Herb Jones: 5 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists
Keys to the Knicks’ Victory
- Jalen Brunson’s Offensive Brilliance: His 39 points, including 16 in the third quarter, were pivotal to the team’s success.
- Strong Team Support: Four other Knicks players scored in double digits, showcasing the team’s depth.
- Defensive Dominance: The Knicks held the Pelicans to just 18 points in the final quarter, emphasizing their defensive prowess.
Starting Lineups
Knicks: OG Anunoby, Josh Hart, Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges, Jalen Brunson
Pelicans: Trey Murphy, Herb Jones, Larry Nance Jr., CJ McCollum, Dejounte Murray
Share Your Thoughts
With this win, the Knicks continue to solidify their playoff position. Brunson’s stellar performance raises the question: Is he worthy of an All-Star selection? How far can the Knicks go this season? Share your opinions in the comments below!
