Sports
Knicks Edge Nets 99-95 in Thrilling NBA Showdown
NEW YORK — Jalen Brunson scored 25 points and grabbed 16 rebounds, leading the New York Knicks to a 99-95 victory over the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday night at Barclays Center. The Knicks secured their second consecutive win, while the Nets extended their losing streak to four games.
Brunson was instrumental in the final minutes, scoring eight crucial points down the stretch, including a step-back jumper with 1:25 remaining to give the Knicks a 95-92 lead. D’Angelo Russell of the Nets responded with a 3-pointer, cutting the deficit to 97-95 with 52 seconds left. However, Cam Johnson missed a potential go-ahead 3-pointer, and Brunson sealed the win with two free throws.
The Knicks had built a double-digit lead in the third quarter, but the Nets rallied, briefly taking an 88-87 lead on a 3-pointer by Russell with 5:18 left. Brunson’s late-game heroics, including three consecutive shots, ensured the Knicks maintained control.
Julius Randle contributed 20 points, while Isaiah Hartenstein added 11 points off the bench for the Knicks. Russell finished with 23 points and 10 assists, and Johnson scored 16 for the Nets, who have lost nine of their last 10 games.
Knicks forward OG Anunoby, playing his first game in Brooklyn since being traded in July 2024, scored 10 points. Nets coach Jordi Fernandez provided an update on leading scorer Cam Thomas, who has been limited to non-contact on-court activities as he recovers from a left hamstring injury. Thomas has not played since Jan. 2.
The Knicks improved to 8-0 this season when holding opponents under 100 points. The Nets will host the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday, while the Knicks face the Sacramento Kings at home on Saturday.