Knicks Shine Offensively in Victory

At the start of the season, the Knicks have demonstrated just how tough they can be to defend when their offense clicks.

In a commanding performance against the Raptors on Sunday night, the Knicks dropped 41 points in the first quarter, ultimately winning 116-94 at Madison Square Garden. This marks the ninth instance this season where they’ve hit the 40-point mark in a quarter, setting them apart from the rest.

Quite impressive, really.

They’re leading the league with nine such quarters, ahead of five other teams, all tied with six.

“We’re very comfortable,” said Josh Hart after the game. “We’re starting to read each other better, understanding each other’s moves. It’s like we know where everyone fits and what positions to take.” There’s something to be said for chemistry.

Meanwhile, Jalen Brunson was recognized as the Eastern Conference Player of the Week. He averaged 28.8 points and 4.5 assists over four games, with a three-point shooting percentage of 40.7%. The Knicks managed to go 4-0 in that span.

Before the game, Raptors coach Darko Rajkovic mentioned how he sees similarities between Brunson and stars like Luka Doncic or Nikola Jokic. “He’s that kind of player,” Rajkovic remarked, noting Brunson’s ability to control the pace of the game. It’s interesting how some players just seem to have that innate instinct, right?

“He might not be the fastest or the strongest, but his skills and shooting make him a significant offensive asset,” he added.

On the injury front, Mitchell Robinson looks set to play against the Celtics in Boston on Tuesday. However, he hasn’t participated in back-to-back games this season, which could mean he’d sit out the following night when the Knicks face the Hornets.