OG Anunoby scored 25 points, including seven during a crucial run late in the third quarter, helping the New York Knicks pull away from the visiting Los Angeles Lakers for a 112-100 victory on Sunday night. The win marked the Knicks’ sixth straight triumph following a challenging 2-9 start to the season, highlighting their recent momentum in the NBA.
Anunoby also contributed eight rebounds, three assists, and three steals in the game, showcasing a well-rounded effort that energized the Knicks. Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson each recorded double-doubles, posting 11 points and 13 rebounds for Towns, and 12 points with 13 assists for Brunson. Landry Shamet supported the team off the bench with 23 points, while starter Josh Hart added 20 points to the Knicks’ balanced attack.
Lakers’ Key Players Fight Hard But Fall Short
Leading scorer Luka Dončić put up 30 points and matched a season-high with 15 rebounds, but his effort was not enough to push the Lakers to victory. The game marked the Lakers’ seventh loss during their ongoing eight-game road trip, leaving them 4-3 on the season. Dončić’s rebounding feat echoed his recent performance on December 7, when he recorded 15 rebounds in a narrow 112-108 triumph over the Philadelphia 76ers.
LeBron James contributed 22 points, five rebounds, and six assists, while Deandre Ayton scored 13 points. Rui Hachimura came off the bench to add 11 points. The contest was tightly contested, with both teams exchanging leads 15 times and tying six times before the Knicks gained control late in the third quarter.
Critical Moments Shift Momentum in Knicks’ Favor
The Lakers initially led by as many as nine points early in the game and finished the first quarter ahead 33-27. The Knicks briefly led at 45-44 in the second quarter, but Los Angeles closed out the half on a 12-7 run, taking a 56-52 advantage. Dončić’s 3-pointer with 3:45 left in the third gave the Lakers their final lead at 77-75.
Following several missed opportunities by the Lakers, Towns intercepted a pass from Dončić, setting up Anunoby’s game-tying dunk. Anunoby continued his defensive dominance by stealing a pass from Gabe Vincent and scoring another dunk, putting New York ahead for good and sparking the decisive run that sealed the Knicks’ win. — Reuters
Implications for Knicks as Winning Streak Continues
This victory contributes to the Knicks’ positive turnaround amid a difficult season start, with OG Anunoby’s leadership playing a major role. The Knicks will now look to maintain this momentum as they continue their schedule, aiming to build confidence and secure a stronger playoff position. For the Lakers, the loss underscores ongoing challenges on the road, particularly during their extended road trip.
