A Thrilling Finish: OG Anunoby’s Heroics Seal the Deal
In a game that went down to the wire, OG Anunoby emerged as the hero for the New York Knicks, knocking down a clutch three-pointer to seal a 114-113 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies. With the game hanging in the balance, Jalen Brunson, the Knicks’ point guard, showcased his maturity by recognizing a double-team and finding Anunoby in the corner. Anunoby, known for his calm under pressure, delivered the decisive blow, sinking the trey that put the Knicks up for good. The Grizzlies had one final chance, but Ja Morant’s layup rimmed out, handing the Knicks a hard-fought win. This game was a testament to the Knicks’ resilience and their ability to perform under pressure, as they improved to 39-20 on the season while sweeping the series against the Grizzlies (38-21).
A Team Effort: Balanced Scoring Powers the Knicks
The Knicks’ victory was not just about Anunoby’s heroics; it was a result of a well-rounded offensive performance. Every starter contributed double-digit points, a testament to the team’s depth and chemistry. Jalen Brunson, once again, stepped up in crucial moments, hitting a go-ahead three-pointer with 24 seconds left. However, the Grizzlies responded quickly, as Ja Morant converted an and-1 drive to give Memphis a two-point lead. This set the stage for Anunoby’s career-defining moment, capping off a game that saw the Knicks’ starters rise to the occasion. The balanced scoring effort highlighted the team’s ability to rely on multiple players, making them a formidable opponent in the league.
Adjustments and Strategies: Coaches Make Their Mark
Friday night’s game was a stark contrast to the Knicks’ dominant 27-point victory over the Grizzlies at MSG a month earlier. In that game, the Knicks were at their best, while the Grizzlies struggled mightily. Memphis coach Taylor Jenkins acknowledged the poor performance, stating, "It was an off night. It was a combination of us playing poorly and also playing into their strengths." Jenkins emphasized the need to shore up the defense and rebounding, areas that have plagued the Grizzlies this season. Meanwhile, Knicks guard Miles McBride highlighted the key to stopping the Grizzlies: "Just being physical. Keeping them out of the paint is the main thing. They’re a big iso team. For us, leaning on each other. You can’t guard everybody one on one." McBride’s words proved prophetic, as the Knicks’ physicality and teamwork played a crucial role in their victory.
The Return of a Key Player: Mitchell Robinson Makes an Impact
The game also marked the long-awaited return of Mitchell Robinson, who had not played since April due to ankle surgery. Despite being limited to 12 minutes off the bench, Robinson made his presence felt, scoring six points and grabbing five rebounds. His contributions were encouraging, particularly a driving dunk and a left-handed finish in the post. However, the Knicks faced challenges with foul trouble, as starters Josh Hart and Karl-Anthony Towns were limited due to fouls. Towns, in particular, struggled to find rhythm, finishing with just 11 points and seven rebounds in 31 minutes. Hart also navigated foul issues, scoring 12 points on six shots. Despite these challenges, the Knicks’ depth and Robinson’s return provided a much-needed boost.
Standout Performances: Brunson and McBride Shine
Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 23 points, but his impact went beyond the stat sheet. The point guard seemed to have an extra motivation after exchanging words with Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins early in the game. Brunson stared down Jenkins on multiple possessions and jawed at him throughout the first half, showcasing his competitive spirit. Meanwhile, Miles McBride delivered a standout performance, scoring 17 points and providing a highlight-reel moment with a soaring one-handed dunk in traffic. McBride’s energy and physicality were key in keeping the Grizzlies in check, particularly in transition. His contributions underscored the importance of the Knicks’ bench in securing the win.
The Bigger Picture: A Statement Victory for the Knicks
The victory over the Grizzlies was more than just a thrilling win; it was a statement for the Knicks. After a dominant performance at MSG earlier in the season, the Knicks showed they could also grind out a close game on the road. The game was tightly contested, with the Grizzlies leading for much of the first half and even taking a double-digit lead in the third quarter. However, the Knicks fought back, taking their first lead in the fourth quarter and setting the stage for Anunoby’s heroics. This win demonstrated the Knicks’ ability to adapt and execute in high-pressure situations, a quality that will be crucial as they push for a deep playoff run. With their full roster finally healthy, the Knicks are starting to look like a complete team, capable of competing with the best in the league.
