Knicks come out big in home opener, defeat the Pistons 130-106

Jalen Brunson‘s home debut was effective and rewarding. Backed by a sold-out crowd, the new point guard delivered 17 points, going 6-11 from the field including a couple of threes and 6 assists in his first home game as the New York Knicks defeated the Detroit Pistons 130-106 last night.

“It was great, it was a great feeling. But I mean, all that goes out the window if you don’t try to win games. So, just do my part to help this team win.”

– Jalen Brunson

The Knicks finished the first quarter 30-20, then delivered a 42 point second act for a 20 points lead at halftime.

Immanuel Quickley led the Knicks with 20 points off the bench, shooting 8-14 from the field. He also grabbed 7 boards and dished 7 dimes, in a game in which the second unit really stood up. Obi Toppin also had a big night with 16 buckets and a couple of dunks right after half time. Derrick Rose completed the bench’s effort with 13 points and 6 assists.

The Knicks shot 52.6% from the field, a major improvement from the season opener in Memphis a couple of nights ago when they barely shot 40% and lost in overtime.

RJ Barrett was 0-3 from behind the arc but shot well from the inside and led the first unit with 18 points while Julius Randle secured 15.

The Pistons were led by Saddiq Bey’s 26 points and Bojan Bogdanovic added 18.

Up-next: The Knicks will host the Orlando Magic from 7:30pm.