Jalen Brunson Leads Knicks to Victory Over Nuggets with 30 Points and 15 Assists
On January 29, 2025, the New York Knicks secured their fifth consecutive victory by defeating the Denver Nuggets 122-112 at Madison Square Garden. Jalen Brunson was a standout performer in the game, scoring 30 points while contributing 15 assists, marking his fifth game this season with at least 30 points and 10 assists. This victory improved the Knicks' overall record to 32 wins and 16 losses, enhancing their position in the league standings.
The game began with the Knicks taking advantage of early foul trouble for Nuggets star Nikola Jokic, who was forced to sit out significant time in the first quarter. The Knicks jumped to an early 18-6 lead, propelled by a 15-0 scoring run. OG Anunoby also made a considerable impact for the Knicks, adding 23 points to the team’s total.
- Knicks Top Performers:
- Jalen Brunson: 30 points, 15 assists
- OG Anunoby: 23 points
- Karl-Anthony Towns: 14 points, 10 rebounds, 5 assists
- Nuggets Top Performers:
- Jamal Murray: 33 points, 5 rebounds, 6 assists
- Nikola Jokic: 17 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists
- Russell Westbrook: 14 points, 14 rebounds
Despite Denver's effort to stage a comeback in the second half, which included a brief lead during the third quarter, the Knicks maintained control of the game with a strong defensive performance and fast-break points. The Knicks scored 25 fast-break points and 23 off turnovers, showcasing their efficiency in transition. The Nuggets struggled defensively, particularly during key moments in the game, which has been a recurring issue throughout their road trip.
This loss marked the Nuggets' third consecutive defeat on their current five-game road trip, dropping their record to 28 wins and 19 losses. As the second half of the season progresses, both teams look to solidify their strategies heading into the playoffs.