OG Anunoby erupted for a career-high 40 points, while Jalen Brunson dished out 17 assists to tie a New York Knicks record as they dismantled the Denver Nuggets 145-118 on Monday night. Brunson added 23 points to his stellar playmaking, guiding the Knicks to a dominant performance in which they shot 60.9% from the field and drained 19 of 36 three-pointers. The blowout showcased New York’s offensive synergy, with the team tying its single-game record of 45 assists, first set in 1979.
Karl-Anthony Towns, a game-time decision due to a sore calf, contributed significantly with 30 points and 15 rebounds. Towns' efficiency (12 of 15 from the field) and presence in the paint added another layer to New York’s dominance, further frustrating a Nuggets squad that struggled defensively. Meanwhile, Denver saw Russell Westbrook provide a spark off the bench with 27 points, but Nikola Jokic managed just 22 points and a season-low seven rebounds as the Nuggets fell to 5-4 at home.
The Knicks’ scorching first quarter, highlighted by Brunson scoring nine consecutive points, set the tone for the blowout. New York built a double-digit lead early and never looked back, leading by as many as 30. The Knicks' potent offense, headlined by Anunoby and Brunson’s combined 9-of-12 shooting from deep, underscored their growing chemistry as they overwhelmed a struggling Nuggets team.
OG Anunoby: A+
Stats: 40 points, 5 rebounds, 4 assists, 0 steals, 1 block, 2 fouls, 1 turnover, 16-23 FG, 5-7 3PT FG, 3-3 FT, 38 mins
OG Anunoby delivered a career night with 40 points, showcasing his ability to score from all areas of the court, including five three-pointers. His offensive explosion fueled the Knicks' blowout victory, emphasizing his growing role as a go-to scorer. Anunoby also contributed defensively with a block and did not take the night off defensively despite having a career night offensively.
Jalen Brunson: A+
Stats: 23 points, 3 rebounds, 17 assists, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 2 fouls, 2 turnovers, 8-14 FG, 4-5 3PT FG, 3-3 FT, 38 mins
Jalen Brunson was the engine behind the Knicks’ historic offensive performance, tying a franchise record with 17 assists while adding 23 points. His ability to orchestrate the offense and hit timely shots from deep kept the Nuggets on their heels. Brunson’s leadership and poise were instrumental in maintaining New York's offensive rhythm throughout the game. No doubt, Brunson played one of the best games of his career tonight because his control of the game was beyond impressive.
Karl-Anthony Towns: A
Stats: 30 points, 15 rebounds, 4 assists, 3 steals, 0 blocks, 4 fouls, 4 turnovers, 12-15 FG, 2-2 3PT FG, 4-6 FT, 34 mins
Towns was a dominant force inside, scoring 30 points with incredible efficiency and grabbing 15 rebounds to control the paint. His three steals highlighted his defensive activity, adding an extra dimension to his performance. Towns’ presence opened up opportunities for his teammates, further solidifying his value as a complete player tonight.
Josh Hart: B
Stats: 12 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, 1 steal, 1 block, 5 fouls, 1 turnover, 5-5 FG, 1-1 3PT FG, 1-1 FT, 28 mins
Josh Hart contributed across the board with 12 points on perfect shooting, complementing his effort with six rebounds and five assists. His energy and defensive hustle added value, though foul trouble limited his minutes in crucial stretches. Hart’s efficient scoring and versatility made him a vital part of the Knicks’ success.
Miles McBride: B
Stats: 13 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal, 0 blocks, 4 fouls, 0 turnovers, 5-9 FG, 3-6 3PT FG, 0-0 FT, 28 mins
Miles McBride stepped up with 13 points, hitting three three-pointers and providing solid contributions on both ends of the floor. His defensive intensity and rebounding added depth to the Knicks’ lineup, while his ability to limit turnovers showcased his maturity. McBride’s reliable play off the bench proved crucial in maintaining the team’s momentum.
Mikal Bridges: B
Stats: 14 points, 2 rebounds, 6 assists, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 1 foul, 0 turnovers, 6-16 FG, 2-8 3PT FG, 0-0 FT, 36 mins
Mikal Bridges added 14 points and an impressive six assists, demonstrating his ability to create for others despite a subpar shooting night. His defensive presence helped slow down Denver’s wing players, even without recording any steals or blocks. Bridges’ willingness to step into a complementary role highlighted his adaptability within the Knicks’ system and that was great to see.
Cameron Payne: B-
Stats: 11 points, 1 rebound, 5 assists, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 3 fouls, 0 turnovers, 3-6 FG, 2-5 3PT FG, 3-3 FT, 18 mins
Payne provided a spark off the bench with 11 points and five assists, making the most of his limited minutes. His ability to knock down two three-pointers and distribute effectively kept the offense flowing when the starters rested. While his overall impact was modest, Payne’s efficiency positively contributed.
Jericho Sims: C+
Stats: 0 points, 4 rebounds, 0 assists, 0 steals, 2 blocks, 2 fouls, 0 turnovers, 0-1 FG, 0-0 3PT FG, 0-0 FT, 14 mins
Sims didn’t contribute offensively but made his presence felt with four rebounds and two blocks. His rim protection and hustle played a role in frustrating Denver’s interior scoring attempts. Sims needs to develop more offensive consistency to elevate his impact in future games.
Tyler Kolek: N/A
Stats: 2 points, 0 rebounds, 1 assist, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 0 fouls, 0 turnovers, 1-1 FG, 0-0 3PT FG, 0-0 FT, 2 mins
Tyler Kolek saw limited action but managed to score on his only field-goal attempt. His brief appearance highlighted his potential, though he didn’t have enough time to make a meaningful impact. As a young player, Kolek remains an intriguing developmental piece for the Knicks.
Pacome Dadiet: N/A
Stats: 0 points, 1 rebound, 0 assists, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 0 fouls, 0 turnovers, 0-1 FG, 0-1 3PT FG, 0-0 FT, 2 mins
Dadiet recorded one rebound in two minutes of action, with little opportunity to impact the game further. His lone shot attempt missed, but his energy on the court was noticeable. Dadiet will need more playing time to showcase his abilities and contribute meaningfully.
Matt Ryan: N/A
Stats: 0 points, 0 rebounds, 0 assists, 0 steals, 0 blocks, 0 fouls, 1 turnover, 0-1 FG, 0-1 3PT FG, 0-0 FT, 2 mins
Matt Ryan’s two minutes on the floor were uneventful, with a missed shot and a turnover. His limited involvement made it difficult to assess his performance. Ryan will look to capitalize on future opportunities to earn more consistent minutes in the rotation.
