Knicks Outlast Nets in Nail-Biter

NEW YORK (AP) — Karl-Anthony Towns scored 26 points and grabbed 15 rebounds, and the New York Knicks held on to beat the Brooklyn Nets 93-92 on Friday night for their fifth straight victory.

The Knicks’ triumph marks their 14th consecutive win against the Nets, establishing the longest winning streak by either team in the rivalry. The Nets’ last victory against the Knicks occurred on January 28, 2023, prior to the trades of Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving.

Key Performances and Game Flow

Jalen Brunson added 17 points and OG Anunoby finished with 16 for the Knicks, who overcame a 13-point first-half deficit and a blown 14-point lead in the fourth quarter.

The game remained competitive until the final seconds, with Ben Saraf having a chance to win it for the Nets at the buzzer, but his 45-foot attempt fell short.

Josh Minott led the Nets with 22 points, although Ziaire Williams contributed 17. The Nets have now lost six consecutive games.

Momentum Swings and Technical Fouls

The Knicks struggled early, scoring a season-low 14 points in the first quarter and trailing 50-44 at halftime. Though, they rallied in the third quarter, outscoring the Nets 31-15 to capture a 75-65 lead.

Brooklyn mounted a comeback, going on a 17-0 run to briefly take the lead in the fourth quarter.

The game also featured moments of tension, resulting in technical fouls.

Associated Press Knicks center Mitchell Robinson and Brooklyn’s Ziaire Williams received technical fouls after several Nets players confronted Robinson, who stood over Nolan Traore after the Nets guard took a hard fall while fouling Robinson while trying to block his shot, with more than three minutes left in the first half.

Further escalating the physicality,

Associated Press Anunoby and Nic Claxton each received technical fouls after Anunoby shoved Claxton twice moments after he fumbled late in the third quarter.

Final Moments and Takeaways

Towns’ layup initially extended the Knicks’ lead to 84-70, but the Nets responded with their run. Towns and Brunson then combined for eight points to regain a 92-87 advantage with 1:04 remaining.

A late three-pointer by Traore brought the Nets within one point, but Towns missed two free throws, setting the stage for Saraf’s final attempt, which missed.

The Knicks’ victory underscores their current form and dominance in the New York rivalry.

FAQ

• Who scored the most points for the Knicks? Karl-Anthony Towns with 26 points.
• How many consecutive games have the Knicks won against the Nets? 14 games.
• When was the last time the Nets defeated the Knicks? January 28, 2023.