NBA: Knicks & Hornets Win – Ball Shines, DeRozan Surpasses Duncan!

The New York Knicks rediscovered their offensive rhythm and defensive intensity, securing a 134-117 victory over the Utah Jazz on Tuesday night. This win halted a two-game losing streak following a challenging road trip to Los Angeles. Simultaneously, the Charlotte Hornets continued their impressive run, defeating the Sacramento Kings 117-109, marking their second consecutive win and moving their season record to 34-33.

In Salt Lake City, the Jazz initially surged ahead, capitalizing on hot three-point shooting. They connected on 11 of their first 13 attempts from beyond the arc, building an 18-point lead in the second quarter. However, the Knicks responded before halftime and then seized control of the game with a dominant run of 20-4 spanning the end of the third and the start of the fourth quarter. A contested jump shot by Jalen Brunson, with a foul drawn, late in the third quarter proved pivotal, igniting the Knicks’ surge.

Brunson led the Knicks with 28 points and 8 assists, while Jordan Clarkson, facing his former team, contributed 27 points. OG Anunoby added 22 points, and Karl-Anthony Towns chipped in with 21 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 assists. For the Jazz, Brice Sensabaugh emerged as the leading scorer with 29 points, followed by Ace Bailey with 21.

DeRozan Climbs the NBA Scoring Ladder

In Charlotte, the Hornets’ victory was highlighted by a historic performance from DeMar DeRozan. The veteran guard scored 39 points, surpassing Tim Duncan to claim the 18th spot on the NBA’s all-time scoring list with a career total of 26,505 points. LaMelo Ball added 30 points for the Hornets, supported by 26 points from Miles Bridges and 24 points from rookie Kon Knueppel.

Despite a halftime lead of 62-57, the Kings faltered in the third quarter as Charlotte took command. The Hornets sealed the win in the closing moments with a clutch three-pointer and free throws from Ball. Sacramento was without Russell Westbrook for this contest.

Around the League

Other notable results from Tuesday included Denver’s win over Houston, New Orleans’ upset victory against Toronto, Orlando’s triumph over Cleveland, and the LA Clippers’ dominant performance against Minnesota.

Utah – New York 117 – 134

Key Stats: Min = Minutes. Tirs = Shots Made / Shots Attempted; 3pts = 3-Pointers Made / 3-Pointers Attempted; LF = Free Throws Made / Free Throws Attempted; O = Offensive Rebound; D = Defensive Rebound; T = Total Rebounds; Pd = Assists; Fte = Personal Fouls; Int = Interceptions; Bp = Turnovers; Ct = Blocks; +/- = Plus/Minus; Pts = Points; Eval = Player Evaluation (calculated from positive – negative actions).

Sacramento – Charlotte 109 – 117

Key Stats: Min = Minutes; Tirs = Shots Made / Shots Attempted; 3pts = 3-Pointers Made / 3-Pointers Attempted; LF = Free Throws Made / Free Throws Attempted; O = Offensive Rebound; D = Defensive Rebound; T = Total Rebounds; Pd = Assists; Fte = Personal Fouls; Int = Interceptions; Bp = Turnovers; Ct = Blocks; +/- = Plus/Minus; Pts = Points; Eval = Player Evaluation (calculated from positive – negative actions).

The Knicks’ victory provides a much-needed boost as they navigate a competitive Eastern Conference. Their ability to overcome an early deficit against the Jazz demonstrates resilience and a willingness to adjust, qualities that will be crucial as the playoffs approach. For the Hornets, the consecutive wins signal a positive trajectory, and DeRozan’s milestone adds another layer of excitement to their season.

Charlotte will look to continue their momentum on the road, while New York returns home to prepare for their next challenge. The NBA season continues to deliver compelling storylines, and these two teams are quickly becoming central figures in the unfolding narrative.

Next Up: The New York Knicks will face the Boston Celtics on Friday, March 19th. The Charlotte Hornets will travel to face the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday, March 17th.

What did you think of these games? Let us know in the comments below!