Knicks Are 13-2 Since OG Joined The Team
Photo: Special to the NY Beacon
By Shara Talia Taylor
The New York Knicks redeemed themselves with a 106-79 win over the Philadelphia 76ers to conclude their two-game playoff-like series Tuesday evening at Madison Square Garden.
OG Anunoby returned to the court from his elbow injury and Josh Hart recorded his fourth triple-double of the season to help the team. New York made more shots and had less turnovers as they bounced back after their loss disappointing loss last Sunday.
“I thought guys were a lot stronger with the ball,” said Head Coach Tom Thibodeau about the improvement. “They were owning their space a lot better and when you do that your turnovers will go down.”
New York had 13 total team turnovers Tuesday compared to 21 total team turnovers against Philadelphia Sunday, which Coach Thibodeau felt contributed to their loss that day. “We knew they were aggressive in coming after the ball,” Thibodeau said. “They were no. 1 in steals. That’s the way they play.”
The 76ers managed nine steals Sunday, but only seven Tuesday. New York had four steals Tuesday and capitalized on 15 points from forcing eight turnovers. Although the Knicks had more steals and forced more turnovers Sunday.
The Knicks took off Tuesday to start the game as Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart led in scoring. Knicks were ahead 26-14 at the end of the first quarter and 59-41 at halftime. Brunson led the Knicks with 15 points at halftime and Hart added 13 points. Hart also led with eight assists and eight total rebounds. New York continued the momentum after halftime and outscored Philadelphia 28-20 in the third quarter alone and 19-18 in the fourth quarter alone.
According to the Knicks, Sunday’s game marked the first time they have held their opponent under 80 points in three consecutive games since the 2000-01 season. That is also when Brunson’s father, Rick Brunson played with the Knicks. “Obviously, a Brunson,” Coach Thibodeau laughed about what it takes to make this type of defense happen.
Brunson and Hart led the team each with 20 points. Hart also led the team with 19 total rebounds and 10 assists earning a spot as the sixth Knick in franchise history to record at least four triple-doubles in a single season. Donte DiVincenzo added 16 points and Anunoby added 14 points.
Philadelphia played without 2023 NBA MVP Joel Embiid. New York was without Julius Randle and Mitchell Robinson, who were out as they continue to recover from injuries.
New York returns to the Garden March 23rd to face the Nets after four games on the road.
…
