Knicks Make History with Twin Triple-Doubles Against Mavericks

NEW YORK (AP) — In a historic matchup on Tuesday night, Josh Hart and Karl-Anthony Towns delivered spectacular performances, becoming the first teammates in New York Knicks history to record triple-doubles in the same game during a 128-113 victory over the Dallas Mavericks.

Hart’s ninth triple-double of the season, which broke the franchise record held by the legendary Clyde Frazier since 1969, came with 16 points, 12 rebounds, and 11 assists. Towns matched him with 26 points, 12 rebounds, and 11 assists, securing his first triple-double since 2022.

“I didn’t envision this. This is more than I ever dreamed of,” said Hart, reflecting on his journey to achieving such heights in the NBA. “The Lord opens doors that we don’t even know are possible.”

Before this season, Hart had never logged a triple-double in his eight-year career, but he has emerged as a dynamic contributor since joining the Knicks. He and Towns facilitated a modern brand of basketball characterized by unselfishness, providing assists for the Knicks’ first six baskets of the game.

“The way he does it is special. It’s always with effort and for the betterment of the team,” said Towns about Hart’s performance. “I’m just happy there’s a way to see on the stat sheet the impact he’s having on the game.”

The Knicks dominated an injury-plagued Mavericks team that was missing key players like Kyrie Irving and Luka Dončić. Despite a strong first half where they tied 68-68, the Mavericks faltered in the third quarter, scoring just 15 points. New York seized the opportunity to take control, outscoring Dallas 30-16 in that period.

Hart expressed, “It’s a blessing. I’ve got a great, high-character group of guys. It means I’ve played at least nine good games so far.” In the midst of his historic achievement, Hart chose to honor Kevin McCullar Jr., who scored his first NBA points in the same game, by giving him the game ball. “That record is cool and a blessing, but that record is going to get broken at some point,” Hart remarked.

Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau acknowledged their monumental achievement: “To have Towns do it as well, that’s pretty special.” It marked only the 17th time in NBA history that two teammates recorded triple-doubles in the same game.

After the game, Hart reflected on his unique position in history, noting he recalled witnessing LeBron James and Lonzo Ball achieve the same milestone as teammates during his time at the Lakers. “It’s great. It means KAT went out there and passed the damn ball and got guys involved like we know he can,” Hart stated. “Hopefully we can carry that on and do more.”

The Knicks improved to 45-26 with this victory, continuing their push for the playoffs. Conversely, the Mavericks fell to 35-38, struggling to maintain consistency with their current roster challenges.