Knicks extend winning streak, defeating Jazz 118-103

In another solid performance, the New York Knicks clinched their 14th victory of the month, matching a record not seen since March 1994. The absence of key players, Julius Randle and OG Anunoby, didn’t hinder the Knicks as they triumphed over the Utah Jazz, 118-103.

Donte DiVincenzo stole the spotlight with an impressive 33-point display, hitting a career-high nine three-pointers on 15 attempts. Jalen Brunson also delivered a standout performance, contributing 29 points and dishing out 9 assists.

This win marks the 14th in a month for the Knicks, tying a record last achieved in March 1994, when they went 14-0. Notably, the team’s most victories was in 1968 when they won 15 and dropped 3 in December, followed by a remarkable 14-1 just 11 months later.

Stepping up in the absence of Anunoby (elbow inflammation), Josh Hart secured his first career triple-double with 10 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists. Hart, playing for 43 minutes, showcased his versatility by adding two blocks to his impressive stat line. Hart secured his triple double in the last minute of the game when he grabbed a rebound, then assisted Precious Achiuwa with a lob.

“You can run offense through him, he plays great defense, rebounds the ball, pushes the ball on the break, plays hard.”

– Tom Thobodeau

Despite missing key starters, the Knicks showcased depth and balanced scoring. Achiuwa had a notable performance with 18 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 blocks, while Isaiah Hartenstein contributed 14 points and 12 rebounds. The bench, led by Quentin Grimes with 12 points and 6 rebounds, played a crucial role.

With a 76-66 lead midway through the third quarter, the Knicks went on a decisive 15-0 run, securing the highest lead of the game. Their solid defense held the Jazz at bay, and the Knicks never looked back.

Collin Sexton led the Jazz with 22 points, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Knicks’ dominance. Lauri Markkanen and Simone Fontecchio added 14 points each, and Keyonte George provided a spark off the bench with 15 points.

The Jazz had a strong start, taking an early 15-6 lead. However, by the end of the first quarter, the Knicks had already turned the tables, leading 29-22. In a comeback attempt, the Jazz narrowed the gap to 61-60 shortly after halftime. Despite their efforts, they never managed to tie the game after losing the lead in the first quarter.

With this victory, the Knicks climbed to the 3rd spot in the Eastern Conference, holding a one-game lead over the Cavaliers and the struggling 76ers. The Bucks, occupying the 2nd place, are within sight, with the Knicks trailing by just 1.5 games.

Taj Gibson is back! As the Knicks are hurting in the post, with Mitchell Robinson getting inured early in the season and now Randle suffering from a disclocated shoulder, the 38 year old veteran who was waived earlier this month, was signed on a 10 day contract. Coach Thibodeau sent him in during the closing seconds after the crowd chanted “We want Taj!”.

Up-next: The Knicks (31-17) will host the Pacers (27-21) on Thursday from 7:30pm.