Knicks overcome a 21 points deficit only to fall short in Sactown

In a closely contested game in Sacramento, the New York Knicks fell short against the Kings 117-122.

Despite a strong performance by RJ Barrett who scored 25 points and Julius Randle who recorded 23 points and 10 rebounds, the Knicks were unable to secure a win. Jalen Brunson and Quentin Grimes both had 19 points each for the Knicks.

The game was decided in the final minutes as Randle turned the ball over with just 21.1 seconds left to play and the Knicks trailing 113-117. The Kings capitalized on this opportunity and made all their free throws to seal the victory.

The Knicks had a slow start to the game, trailing by 21 early in the third quarter. However, they were able to make a comeback with Grimes making two consecutive three-pointers in the fourth quarter to bring the Knicks within just 3 points at 103-106 with 4:12 left to play.

Despite having 23 offensive rebounds compared to the Kings’ 6, the Knicks were unable to convert them into points. The Knicks also outscored the Kings on fast break points with 23-7.

Brunson returned to the lineup after missing two games with an injury, but unfortunately, he did not return in the second half due to the same injury.

“He just re-aggravated it, but I haven’t talked to the medical people yet. Just soreness.”

– Tom Thibodeau

For the Kings, Domantas Sabonis led with 24 points, 13 rebounds, and 10 assists, while De’Aaron Fox had 23 and Malik Monk scored 19 points off the bench.

This loss marks the Knicks’ second straight loss after a nine-game winning streak. The Knicks now hold a record of 39-29 and are looking to bounce back in their next game. The Kings, on the other hand, improved their record to 39-26.

Up-next: Knicks (39-29) continue their California trip to take on the Clippers (35-33) on Saturday afternoon from 4:00 pm