Knicks Take Care of Business Against Pistons
The Detroit Piston New York Knicks game went by the book. Once New York took the lead late in the first period, they held it. Detroit remained in the game until the last few minutes when IQ’s hustle and Jalen Brunson’s toughness put the game out of reach.
The Knicks didn’t put the Pistons away as quickly or easily as they should have, but New York also displayed a confidence that they were going to win. Each time the Pistons narrowed the gap to 6 or 7 pts., the Knicks came back and pushed it to double digits. Jalen Brunson is the reason for that confidence.
Barrett scored 30 pts and Bogdanovic had 25 as two weak D scorers went head to head. The Knicks committed 31 personals. Even RJ Barrett was charged with three fouls. This was likely a reaction to the Brooklyn loss, although that was on the Knicks offense. New York was out to prove they were tough.
Jalen Brunson controlled the game. He finished with 7 assists and 26 pts. on 8 -16 including 2 – 5 from deep. Cam Reddish started, but with no Cade Cunningham to guard, and taking some hairy shots, he was limited to 17 min. IQ and Obi each were given 20+ mins. and scored 8 pts apiece. Aside from his efficient 3-6, 2-3, Quick matched Obi’s total of 5 boards, and made a nice hustle save that Brunson turned into an old fashioned 3 point play.
After 12 games the Knicks are at .500, notching two wins against playoff teams. The Knicks next two games should be wins, followed by three games on the road against the Nuggets, Warriors and Suns. New York should remain .500 a while longer.
Box Score: https://sportsdata.usatoday.com/basketball/nba/scores/1050555