Landry Shamet shines with 29 points as Knicks defeat Nets
- Landry Shamet scored a career-high 29 points after replacing Mikal Bridges shortly after the game began.
- Several key Knicks players were rested to prioritize health ahead of the playoffs, finishing the regular season with a strong record.
- The Knicks achieved their tenth consecutive victory over the Nets, setting a positive tone as they head into postseason play.
In New York on April 13, 2025, the New York Knicks faced the Brooklyn Nets in the final game of the regular season. Landry Shamet stepped into the spotlight by scoring a remarkable 29 points after coming in as a late-game replacement for Mikal Bridges, who left the game just seconds after the start due to a foul. The Knicks had chosen to rest several of their key players including Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, Josh Hart, and OG Anunoby, prioritizing their health and readiness for the upcoming playoffs. The Knicks' strategy allowed them to enter the playoffs as the third seed in the Eastern Conference, looking to capitalize on the momentum from this victory over their local rivals. This was made all the more significant as the Knicks had been struggling recently, having lost their previous three games. Coach Tom Thibodeau’s decision to rest regulars stirred discussions on how teams balance the need for playoff preparedness versus gaining rhythm through late-season games. With a final score of 113-105, the Knicks not only secured their tenth consecutive victory over the Nets but also finished the regular season with an impressive record of 51 wins and 31 losses. The Nets, on the other hand, wrapped up their season with a disappointing 26-56 record, signaling a need for major improvements. This game marked a significant moment for former Net Mikal Bridges, who extended his consecutive game streak to 556 games, showcasing his durability as an NBA player. The night was bittersweet for him as he exited within the first minutes due to an unexpected foul. Looking ahead, the Knicks prepared to transition into playoff mode with anticipation for their first game against the Pistons. The stakes are particularly high for them, and this victory may serve as a confidence booster, while the Nets now focus on their upcoming draft lottery, seeking the chance to rebuild and enhance their roster moving forward. The Knicks' relentless push this season has not gone unnoticed, and fans are excited to see how they perform in the postseason after such a strong finish.