The New York Knicks extended their winning streak after beating the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday. Here is how they made it happen.
The New York Knicks were able to outlast the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday, 121-116 for their seventh win in a row. Here is how they did it:
A Collective Effort
Led by Jalen Brunson’s 32 points, the Knicks had widespread contributions in their victory.
Seven of the nine players who touched the floor for New York finished in double figures: Karl-Anthony Towns and OG Anunoby each scored 21 points, Mikal Bridges had 14 points, Mitchell Robinson had 11 points and Josh Hart and Jordan Clarkson each scored 10 points.
The role players did most of their damage in the first half as the Knicks rolled to 66 points by the break. In the second frame, Brunson and Towns combined for 31 points to lead the way to another win.
Brunson Takes Over
When it came time for someone in a Knicks jersey to be a closer, Brunson answered the call.
Brunson scored 15 of his 32 points in the fourth quarter while going 4-5 from the field and 7-7 from the free throw line. Not only did he account for almost half of his total points in the final 12 minutes of the game, but he scored over half of New York’s 28 points in that span.
In the final four minutes, Brunson was responsible for nine of the Knicks’ 12 points — most of which he earned at the free throw line.
The Boards and Second Chance Points
When it came to certain metrics, New Orleans was able to outduel New York. The Pelicans had more assists (33-29), more paint points (56-52) and more fastbreak points.
However, the Knicks won the battle of extra opportunities and the boards.
New York outscored the Pelicans, 16-2 in second chance points. THis was supplemented by the Knicks grabbing seven more rebounds than New Orleans (41-34), nine of which came on the offensive glass. In a game decided by only five points, those extra opportunities made the difference.
Who is up Next?
Another win by the Knicks has not only added to their streak, but has solidified their place in the Eastern Conference standings for now.
With nine games remaining, New York is 48-25 and occupies the third seed in the East. They hold a 2.5 game lead over the Cleveland Cavaliers and are in lockstep with the Boston Celtics for second place.
But the Knicks must remain vigilant, as the next nine games feature several strong opponents.
New York’s next three contests will come against the Charlotte Hornets, Oklahoma City Thunder and Houston Rockets; all of which are on the road. The Knicks will also see the Atlanta Hawks and Boston Celtics before the regular season is through.