Randle, Brunson, Barrett lead Knicks past Magic

Julius Randle finished in double-double with 25 points and 12 rebounds, Jalen Brunson scored 21 and dished 6 assists and RJ Barrett added 20 buckets to go with 6 boards as the Knicks defeated the Orlando Magic 115-102 last night at the Garden.

The Knicks took off during the third quarter and built their largest lead, 94-80, after an electric play that saw Obi Toppin receiving a long pass from Brunson and assisting RJ with a pass behind the back for a monster finisher that set the crowd wild.

Once they took over in the second half they kept their opponents trailing until the final buzzer. The Magic had a short comeback late in the fourth quarter when Bol Bol’s free throws and Wendell Carter Jr’s dunk cut New York’ lead 104-98 but they failed to capitalize and the Knicks scored the following 6 straight points to secure the win.

A ten point lead was previously blown late in the second quarter allowing the Magic to get back in the game. The Knicks however controlled the boards, especially on the offense, outrebounding the Magic 18-13 (50-41).

“I think the fun part is, our defense is getting better, still a lot better we can get to, but once we get stops, it’s fun getting in the open court, running the floor, playing fast and everybody touches the ball.”

– Julius Randle

Mitchell Robinson scored 14 points and Toppin led the bench with 10 buckets. Immanuel Quickley went 0-5 from the field, finished scoreless but ended up with a game-high 8 assists and 6 rebounds with the second unit.

The Magic were led by the No. 1 pick, Paolo Banchero, who scored 21 points while shooting 6-13 from the field. For the young rook, this was his fourth consecutive game to score 20 points or more, third player to open his career in such a manner. Unfortunately, his team has yet to win this season.

Carter Jr. finished in double-double with 17 points and 11 rebounds while New York native, Cole Anthony and Franz Wagner contributed with 14 buckets each.

Up-next: The Knicks (2-1) will host the Hornets (2-1) on Wednesday, the 26th from 7:30pm.