Knicks Rebound in Style Against Hornets
The New York Knicks delivered a resounding response to their recent setback in Boston, overpowering the Charlotte Hornets with a decisive 119-104 victory at Madison Square Garden. Karl-Anthony Towns stole the spotlight with a career-high performance, scoring 35 points and grabbing 18 rebounds. Jalen Brunson also made an impact, rebounding from his previous struggles to add 26 points, propelling the Knicks to a solid 14-7 record.
Towns Takes Charge Early
From the opening tip, it was clear the Knicks were on a mission. They surged ahead with a commanding 27-12 lead in the first quarter, establishing control through a combination of tenacious defense and seamless ball movement. Towns was a force to be reckoned with, showcasing his offensive arsenal by shooting an impressive 13-of-23 from the field, including 3-of-7 from three-point range. His ability to secure five offensive rebounds created critical second-chance opportunities for New York.
Towns’ versatility was evident throughout the game, as he not only dominated the scoring but also contributed significantly with five assists and two steals. His mid-range game was particularly effective against a Charlotte frontcourt that struggled to contain his blend of size and skill.
Hornets Fight Back but Fall Short
The Hornets made a spirited attempt to close the gap in the second quarter, outscoring New York 35-26, largely thanks to LaMelo Ball’s playmaking. Ball netted 34 points on 12-of-27 shooting, injecting life into Charlotte’s offense and narrowing the Knicks’ lead to just six points by halftime.
However, despite Ball’s efforts, New York’s depth and experience proved decisive. Rookie Kon Knueppel, who recently earned the title of Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month, found it challenging to find his rhythm, managing only 13 points on 5-of-16 shooting. The Knicks tightened their perimeter defense after the break, stifling Charlotte’s offensive flow and securing a comfortable victory.
Knicks Show Championship Character
This win not only highlights the Knicks’ resilience following their loss to the Celtics but also illustrates their championship potential. With Towns and Brunson leading the charge, New York demonstrated the ability to bounce back and maintain control throughout the game. As the season progresses, their performance against the Hornets serves as a powerful reminder of the talent and tenacity within this squad.
