Mikal Bridges delivered a powerful performance to lead the New York Knicks to a decisive comeback victory over the Toronto Raptors on their home court. Scoring 30 points, with 19 coming in the pivotal third quarter, Bridges helped the Knicks overturn a halftime deficit and secure a 119-92 win on January 29, 2026. This victory strengthens New York’s position in the Eastern Conference with a record of 29-18.
Bridges Reflects on Recent Struggles Before His Breakout Game
After struggling with his form in recent weeks, Bridges acknowledged his self-assessment and motivation for improvement following the win.
“In recent weeks… I just don’t think I’ve been training at my best. I don’t know, maybe I felt too entitled. But it was something that forced me to look in the mirror and reflect on what kind of player I wanted to be,”
Bridges told the NY Post.
Key Contributions from Bridges and Anunoby Ignite Knicks’ Surge
The Knicks were trailing 51-47 at halftime but surged ahead thanks largely to Bridges and OG Anunoby. Together, they combined for 56 points, effectively compensating for the absence of Jalen Brunson, who was sidelined due to illness. While Brunson managed just 13 points and 4 assists in 30 minutes, Bridges and Anunoby became the driving force behind New York’s offense and defense.
- Mikal Bridges: 30 points, 4 assists, 12-of-15 shooting
- OG Anunoby: 26 points, 5 assists, 6 steals, 2 blocks
Knicks coach Mike Brown praised Anunoby’s defensive efforts:
“Anunoby had about six steals and also deflected the ball about seven times. Those numbers are unheard of on defense.”
He also highlighted Anunoby’s aggressive plays near the rim, saying,
“What I loved about OG was his ability to attack the rim. His dunks were incredible.”
Supporting Performances and Team Depth Bolster Knicks
Due to rest protocols, Mitchell Robinson and Deuce McBride did not participate, but Tyler Kolek earned meaningful minutes off the bench. Starting with the second unit, Kolek contributed 5 points, 10 assists, and 3 steals while maintaining the best plus-minus differential on the court for the Knicks at +23. Karl-Anthony Towns played a pivotal role on the boards, grabbing 22 rebounds—seven of them offensive. He also made a highlight-worthy no-look pass to Bridges, initiating a key scoring play during the game.
Karl-Anthony Towns crashes the glass for his 22nd rebound and feeds Mikal Bridges for the basket 😤pic.twitter.com/3IJfHd2Qyn
Reflecting on the pass, Towns said,
“I guessed Bridges would be in the area, so I trusted him.”
He added,
“And that confidence was rewarded because it was exactly where I thought it would be. We were able to add two points and maintain the momentum.”
Raptors’ Attempts Fall Short Despite Strong Shows from Ingram and Barnes
Toronto’s standout players included Brandon Ingram, who posted 27 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 assists, along with Scottie Barnes’ 17 points and RJ Barrett’s double-digit contribution of 14 points. Ingram recognized the missed opportunity after the game, saying,
“We have to play for the full 48 minutes… Especially against good teams like the Knicks. We thought we had it under control… But we’ll be ready next time. We let a good opportunity slip away.”
Significance and Outlook for the Knicks as They Strengthen Eastern Standing
The Knicks’ commanding performance in Toronto marks a critical step in solidifying their position as a top contender in the Eastern Conference. Mikal Bridges’ resurgence after recent struggles, combined with decisive contributions from Anunoby, Kolek, and Towns, reflects a well-rounded team effort that could carry momentum into the remainder of the season. This win also extends New York’s series advantage against Toronto to 3-0, underscoring their dominance over a key divisional rival. The team now looks to sustain this performance as they aim to climb higher in the playoff race.
Karl-Anthony Towns crashes the glass for his 22nd rebound and feeds Mikal Bridges for the basket 😤pic.twitter.com/3IJfHd2Qyn
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) January 29, 2026
