The New York Knicks dominated the Denver Nuggets 145-118 on Monday night, led by a career-high 40 points from OG Anunoby.
Anunoby, who was efficient throughout the game, shot 16-of-23 from the field and 5-of-7 from beyond the arc. Jalen Brunson added a career-high 17 assists, while scoring 23 points to complement his playmaking.
The Knicks recorded a franchise-tying 45 assists, matching the team record set in 1979.
New York came out of the gates strong, leading by 12 points after the first quarter and extending their lead to 23 at halftime. They shot a blistering 60.9% from the field, overwhelming Denver in every aspect. Despite the large lead, the Knicks’ starters played well into the game’s later stages.
Karl-Anthony Towns, who was a game-time decision due to a calf issue, played an integral role for the Knicks. He contributed 30 points and 15 rebounds, showing his prowess as he hit 12-of-15 shots.
Towns, who had previously helped eliminate the Nuggets from the playoffs last season as a member of the Timberwolves, proved to be a valuable asset after the Knicks acquired him in an October trade.
On the Nuggets’ side, Nikola Jokic scored 22 points but was held to a season-low seven rebounds. His performance wasn’t enough as Denver’s offense struggled to keep pace with New York’s scorching shooting.
Russell Westbrook came off the bench for the Nuggets, adding 27 points, while Jamal Murray posted 20 points. However, Denver fell to 9-7 and saw their home record drop to a disappointing 5-4.
Anunoby and Brunson combined for 9-of-12 shooting from beyond the arc, helping the Knicks bury Denver’s defense.
The Knicks also dominated the three-point battle, shooting 19-of-36 (52.8%) from long range. Meanwhile, the Nuggets struggled from deep, making just 11-of-33 attempts (33.3%).
As the game progressed, the Knicks’ well-balanced offensive attack overwhelmed Denver. Miles McBride, coming off the bench, contributed 13 points, while Cameron Payne added 11 points and five assists.
The win gives the Knicks (10-7) a much-needed boost, while the Nuggets drop to 9-7.
