Brunson erupts for 33, New York puts up 84 in the first half, and Madison Square Garden witnesses an absolute blowout.
The Knicks made a statement to the Chicago Bulls Wednesday night. New York had a blistering offensive game, putting up one of the best showings in franchise history and defeating Chicago 135-105 at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks completely dominated throughout the first quarter and the Bulls were never able to catch up.
Brunson Sets the Tone
Jalen Brunson was on fire off the get-go. He scored 22 points in the first quarter on 8-of-10 shooting including four three pointers.
The Knicks built a huge 43-21 lead after one. New York then exploded for 41 points in the second quarter to take an unbelievable 84-52 lead heading into halftime.
The team’s first half point total is a franchise record for most points scored in a half. In 1988!
A Team-Wide Takeover
Brunson led the charge with 33 points.
However, Brunson was far from alone.
OG Anunoby put up 18 points, Karl-Anthony Towns had a double-double (17 points, 12 rebounds), Landry Shamet and Jordan Clarkson also chipped in 10 points apiece and Dalton Knecht started brightly for the Knicks scoring 10 points.
But it was not just Knecht who stood out. Miles McBride played nicely to help increase the lead to a game-high 44 points with a four-point play towards the end of the third quarter.
The team played well.
The Bull Never Had an Answer
Chicago put on a show to make things look more legitimate in the second half, but it was already too late for them as New York started the final quarter ahead 113-79.
New York shot an impressive 50.6% from the field and hit 17 three-pointers, while Chicago failed to find any offensive flow shooting a poor 38.5%.
Tre Jones was the only player in double figures for Chicago, finishing with 14 points.
Final Thoughts: That’s How You Make a Statement!
This is what we want to see from the Knicks!
Coming off a 0-3 start to the season, New York has really turned it on over their last 5 games winning 4 of them. The Knicks displayed how dangerous they can be on Wednesday night.
Brunson was unreal, Towns dominated the boards, Anunoby had another great game, and Dalton Knecht made an instant impact.
They scored 84 points in the first half, won by 30 points and tied a team record. What a night!
Final Score: New York Knicks 135, Chicago Bulls 105.
Next Game: The Knicks will be heading on the road to take on the Cleveland Cavaliers on Saturday the 7th of November. Will they be able to continue their hot form?
