Knicks overwhelmed in defeat to Thunder as Shai Gilgeous-Alexander shines in the final moments

Thunder Triumph Over Knicks as Gilgeous-Alexander Shines

OKLAHOMA CITY — Shai Gilgeous-Alexander made it clear who the MVP was during the Thunder’s 111-100 victory against the Knicks.

It certainly wasn’t Jalen Brunson.

Gilgeous-Alexander took charge in the closing minutes of the game, finishing with 30 points, while the Knicks struggled to keep pace. The Knicks, who have now lost six consecutive games to Oklahoma City, gave a strong effort but fell behind in the last moments, with the Thunder ending the game on a 19-9 run.

In the fourth quarter, Gilgeous-Alexander added 10 points to his total, making 13 of 16 free throws. Brunson also reached 30 points but found his team trailing by 10 with just six minutes left on the clock.

The Knicks, now at 48-27 and having lost two straight, sit three games behind the second-place Celtics in the East Division and just one game behind the Cavaliers in terms of losses. It’s worth noting they haven’t won in Oklahoma City since 2017.

While Sunday’s matchup could have hinted at a potential Finals preview, Thunder center Isaiah Hartenstein was cautious, suggesting it’s too early to think that way.

After all, the Knicks still need to secure a spot in their first Finals since 1999, and the Thunder are navigating a challenging Western Conference, particularly with the San Antonio Spurs looming.

Nevertheless, the game served as a useful gauge for both squads. With Miles McBride returning from a lengthy absence and the Thunder reportedly injury-free, both teams were nearly at full strength. The Knicks were missing only Landry Shamet, who has been sidelined with a knee issue.

Unfortunately for New York, their promising performance took a hit when McBride seemed to injure his groin while chasing a loose ball midway through the third quarter. He limped off and didn’t return, a setback for a player who had been eager to get back on the court.

Before the injury, coach Mike Brown felt optimistic about his team’s chances, noting that “Every game ahead is a big game.” He acknowledged the importance of learning from facing a playoff-caliber team.

“They have the league’s top defense, which works to their advantage,” he said. “You see how they guard you and identify areas for improvement. Gilgeous-Alexander is tough to handle, and they’ve got shooters around him, so you really have to find a balance when defending.”

The Knicks managed to keep it close in the first half, largely due to Brunson, who contributed 16 points, five rebounds, and four assists. Meanwhile, Karl-Anthony Towns had a quiet game until late, finishing with 15 points and 18 rebounds after struggling in the first half.