Latest YORK – Jalen Brunson continues to cement his status as the New York Knicks’ closer, leading the team to a 121-116 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday night. The win marks the Knicks’ seventh consecutive victory and pulls them within a half-game of the Boston Celtics for second place in the Eastern Conference.
Brunson, the driving force behind the Knicks’ recent success, scored 32 points and dished out 7 assists, shooting 11-of-19 from the field. He took over in the final minutes, scoring 10 consecutive points – including 15 of the team’s last 18 – to secure the win. The performance underscores Brunson’s reliability in crunch time, a quality his teammates clearly value.
“He’s just being himself,” Brunson said, reflecting on his consistent performance. “Maintaining my habits. Focusing on my operate ethic. What’s gotten me here and continuing to do that.”
The Knicks now hold a record of 48-25, trailing the Celtics’ 47-24. The increasingly tight race for Eastern Conference supremacy is setting the stage for a thrilling finish to the regular season.
Josh Hart highlighted Brunson’s composure and the team’s confidence in him during those critical moments. “I know he likes being in positions like this,” Hart said. “We aim for to see him in these situations. You learn in this sport that the last three or four minutes are always decisive. So, your key players, your stars, approach out and show why they’re at that level.”
Beyond Brunson’s stellar performance, the Knicks demonstrated a balanced attack with seven players scoring in double figures. Karl-Anthony Towns contributed 21 points and 14 rebounds, earning his 51st double-double of the season, while RJ Barrett added 21 points. Mikal Bridges chipped in with 14 points and 7 assists, and Josh Hart and Quentin Grimes each added 10 points. Mitchell Robinson rounded out the scoring with 11 points and 8 rebounds.
The Knicks’ efficiency at the free-throw line proved crucial, converting 11 of 12 attempts in the fourth quarter and 20 of 22 overall. They also dominated in second-chance points, outscoring the Pelicans 14-2. This ability to capitalize on extra possessions and convert opportunities was a key factor in their victory.
Since January 21st, the Knicks have been one of the league’s hottest teams, boasting a 23-7 record. Their defensive prowess has been particularly impressive, currently ranking as the best defense in the NBA with a defensive rating of 105.3 points per game. Their net rating of +12.9 points also leads the league, demonstrating their overall dominance on both ends of the court.
With just nine games remaining in the regular season, the Knicks have a clear path to potentially securing the second seed in the Eastern Conference. Their remaining schedule includes matchups against the Hornets (twice), the Oklahoma City Thunder, the Houston Rockets, the Memphis Grizzlies, the Chicago Bulls, the Atlanta Hawks, the Boston Celtics, the Toronto Raptors, and another game against the Hornets.
Here’s a look at the Knicks’ remaining schedule:
- March 27 vs. Hornets
- March 30 vs. OKC Thunder
- April 1 vs. Rockets
- April 2 vs. Grizzlies
- April 4 vs. Bulls
- April 7 vs. Hawks
- April 10 vs. Celtics
- April 11 vs. Raptors
- April 13 vs. Hornets
For the Pelicans, Zion Williamson led the way with 22 points, while Trey Murphy III and Bey contributed with 18 and 16 points respectively. Jones, Matkovic and Fears also reached double figures with 13, 12 and 21 points.
The Knicks’ ability to consistently locate success through a balanced attack, coupled with Brunson’s clutch performances, positions them as a legitimate contender in the Eastern Conference. As they navigate the final stretch of the regular season, their focus will undoubtedly remain on solidifying their position and preparing for a deep playoff run.
Next Up: The Knicks will host the Charlotte Hornets on Wednesday, March 27th, as they continue their pursuit of the second seed in the Eastern Conference.
What do you consider? Can the Knicks overtake the Celtics for the second seed? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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