The New York Knicks defeated the Charlotte Hornets 125-101 on Thursday, extending their winning streak to four games. Karl-Anthony Towns led with 27 points and 16 rebounds, while OG Anunoby and Jalen Brunson added 25 and 24 points, respectively.
The game was tight until the third quarter, when Anunoby ignited a 28-6 run. He scored 15 points and delivered back-to-back blocked 3-point attempts, energizing the Madison Square Garden crowd. The surge turned a one-point Knicks lead into a commanding 93-70 advantage.
Brunson got off to a scorching start, scoring 19 of his 24 points in the first quarter. His early contributions helped the Knicks weather the Hornets’ resistance in the opening half.
Charlotte, playing without key players LaMelo Ball, Miles Bridges, and Tre Mann, struggled to keep pace. Rookie Tidjane Salaun exited early with a left ankle sprain, adding to the Hornets’ injury woes. Brandon Miller led Charlotte with 26 points in the team’s seventh consecutive loss.
The Knicks showcased balanced scoring, with all five starters reaching double figures. Towns dominated inside with three offensive rebounds and a highlight-reel dunk in traffic during the decisive third quarter. Anunoby contributed on both ends, including four steals and two blocks.
The Knicks’ bench also played a role, as Miles McBride chipped in 10 points and six assists. Precious Achiuwa made his season debut after missing the first 21 games, contributing two points and four rebounds in limited minutes.
The Hornets’ effort was led by Seth Curry, who scored 18 points off the bench, and Vasilije Micic, who tallied 14 points and 12 assists. However, Charlotte’s 15 turnovers and lack of defensive stops allowed New York to control the tempo.
The Knicks (14-8) are gaining momentum as they prepare for tougher competition. With consecutive dominant performances, including a recent win over Orlando, they look poised for a strong December.
The Hornets (6-16) face an uphill battle as their losing streak continues. Injuries and inconsistent defense have left them struggling to compete. Their next game against Boston offers little reprieve as they face one of the Eastern Conference’s top teams.
The Knicks finished shooting 53.9% from the field, including an impressive 54.5% from three-point range. Charlotte managed 44.9% shooting but was out-rebounded 43-40, with New York’s physicality making the difference in key moments.
