Jalen Brunson shines with 31 points as Knicks edge Hornets in close game
- The New York Knicks have won four of their last five games, contributing to momentum as they head into the NBA Cup quarterfinals.
- Mikal Bridges has averaged 22.4 points per game during this stretch, showing a marked improvement in his shooting efficiency.
- The team's focus on balanced scoring and improving chemistry is setting the stage for their upcoming matchup against the Atlanta Hawks.
In the United States, the New York Knicks have been experiencing a surge in performance, winning four out of their last five games as they head into an important quarterfinal matchup in the NBA Cup against the Atlanta Hawks. Mikal Bridges has been a key player in this streak, showcasing his scoring ability with an average of 22.4 points per game. After facing struggles earlier in the season, including being benched at crucial moments, Bridges has found his rhythm since December, significantly improving his shooting percentages from beyond the arc. Karl-Anthony Towns returned to the Knicks lineup, contributing to their winning streak with impressive performances including a double-double against the Toronto Raptors, helping the Knicks secure a thrilling 113-108 victory. Towns’ ability to make critical plays down the stretch has been instrumental for New York as they seek to advance further in the tournament. The Knicks’ balanced scoring attack has allowed them to stay competitive in tight games, and they are now looking to continue this momentum against a Hawks team they previously lost to. In addition to Bridges and Towns, other players have stepped up, including Jalen Brunson, who has been pivotal in recent games, assisting in both scoring and playmaking. The Knicks are not only focusing on individual performances but also on team chemistry, which coach Tom Thibodeau emphasized after the Raptors game. The prize money from the NBA Cup tournament serves as additional motivation, with players eager to support their teammates financially. Overall, the Knicks are demonstrating a revamped style of play that emphasizes both offensive and defensive efforts, leading them to climb the standings in the league. As they prepare for their upcoming challenge against the Hawks, the team is looking to build on their successes and aim for the championship, underscoring the importance of each game in this pivotal in-season tournament.