14 different scorers appeared on the scoresheet for the New York Knicks, who put up an absolutely dominant performance vs. the Chicago Bulls in front of a sold-out Madison Square Garden.
From the beginning, it was destined to be a blowout at home, as the Knicks outscored the Bulls 38-16 in the first 12 minutes of play to build a comfortable lead. New York set a franchise record by going into halftime leading by 37 points, and were able to do so even without their star center, Karl-Anthony Towns, who was listed out and missed his second game in a row with elbow discomfort.
It was a total team effort, with Head Coach Mike Brown playing his entire rotation and all 14 players getting on the scoresheet. The tone was set by OG Anunoby, who led all scorers with 31 points and was one of four Knicks players in double digits. Anunoby also went 7-10 from three, tying his career high, along with 8 rebounds.
Key contributors in the blowout win
Mitchell Robinson started in place of the injured KAT and recorded a big double-double with 17 points and 11 rebounds, while Jalen Brunson and Mikal Bridges also contributed with 17 and 12 points, respectively.
Guard Depth
Coach Brown spoke about the depth of this team after playing his entire roster in the win and highlighted the importance of having players like Landry Shamet, Deuce McBride, and Jose Alvarado on the squad.
“Having Landry and Deuce as backup guards, we wanted to take a look at them. Jose has done a fantastic job — especially since we haven’t had many healthy guards and he stepped in. Now that Deuce and Landry are getting healthy, we’re trying to find minutes for them. That’s a priority for me because they’ve proven themselves.”
What’s next for the Knicks?
The Knicks are looking to find their best form ahead of the NBA Playoffs. Currently sitting in third place in the Eastern Conference, they will look to repeat their success from last season, reaching the Conference Finals in what many would call a “successful season.”