NEW YORK, NY – The New York Knicks, led by Julius Randle’s 31 points and Jalen Brunson’s 30-point performance, secured a convincing 109-94 victory over the Houston Rockets at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday night. Brunson’s return from a two-game absence due to a bruised left calf was a game-changer for the Knicks, who looked reinvigorated with their point guard back on the floor.
Randle highlighted the impact of Brunson’s return, referring to him as the “head of the snake” and emphasizing how his presence helped organize the team. The Knicks’ offense, which had struggled in a loss to Orlando with Brunson out, found its rhythm again, particularly in the second half where they extended their lead.
Brunson, who faced a tough mental challenge being sidelined, expressed his eagerness to contribute to the team’s success. His return was timely, as he and Randle combined to score more than half of the Knicks’ points.
OG Anunoby added 15 points for the Knicks, who improved to a 24-17 record at the halfway point of their schedule. Josh Hart contributed a double-double with 10 points and 13 rebounds. The win also marked a special occasion for coach Tom Thibodeau, celebrating his 66th birthday with a team victory.
For the Rockets, Fred VanVleet led the scoring with 24 points and 12 assists. Despite his efforts, the Rockets concluded their six-game trip with a 1-5 record, the sole win coming against the Detroit Pistons. Dillon Brooks expressed the team’s determination to regroup and find their form back home.
Alperen Sengun added 18 points and 10 rebounds for Houston, but it wasn’t enough to prevent their eighth consecutive loss to New York. The Knicks effectively took control in the third quarter, outscoring the Rockets and eventually pulling away in the final minutes.
The Knicks continue their four-game homestand with upcoming games against Washington and Toronto. The upcoming match against the Raptors will be the first since last month’s trade that brought Anunoby to New York and sent RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley to Toronto.
The Knicks’ improved defense, coupled with the offensive prowess of Brunson and Randle, suggests a strong potential for success in their upcoming fixtures. As for the Rockets, they will aim to bounce back in their next game against Utah, seeking to end their losing streak and regain momentum.
