
New York Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau criticized the referees following the team’s 99-95 victory over the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday night. Thibodeau was particularly vocal about what he perceived as missed calls on Jalen Brunson throughout the game and the season.
“What goes on with (Jalen Brunson) is ridiculous. It really is,” Thibodeau said, according to Ian Begley. The coach expressed frustration over a missed foul call on Brunson during a critical late-game drive.
Despite the officiating, the Knicks improved to 29-16, bolstered by a dominant performance from Karl-Anthony Towns. Towns posted 25 points and 16 rebounds, leading New York to its second straight win.
Brunson scored eight of his 17 points in the final minutes, including a crucial step-back jumper and two free throws that sealed the victory. His late-game heroics were vital as the Knicks reclaimed control after Brooklyn briefly took the lead.
Brooklyn, now 14-30, fought hard despite missing key players. D’Angelo Russell led the Nets with 23 points and 10 assists, while Cam Johnson added 16 points. However, Brooklyn’s struggles continued as they dropped their fourth consecutive game.
The Knicks built a double-digit lead in the third quarter, but Brooklyn erased it with a rally in the fourth. Keon Johnson’s three-pointer gave the Nets an 88-87 lead with just over five minutes to play. New York responded with timely plays from Brunson and Towns to secure the win.
Towns was instrumental on both ends, grabbing five offensive rebounds and controlling the paint. OG Anunoby contributed 20 points, while Precious Achiuwa provided 11 points off the bench. The Knicks’ defense held the Nets to just 37.2% shooting from the field, a key factor in the victory.
Brooklyn had an opportunity to take the lead in the final seconds, but Cam Johnson missed a three-pointer from 26 feet. Brunson then extended the lead to four with two free throws, effectively putting the game out of reach.
Mikal Bridges, in his first game back in Brooklyn since being traded, scored 10 points but struggled from the field. Bridges contributed defensively, helping the Knicks maintain balance during the closely contested matchup.
The Knicks remain a top-six team in the Eastern Conference and have shown resilience in tight games. However, Thibodeau’s comments highlight ongoing concerns about officiating, particularly with regard to Brunson, who continues to play a critical role in New York’s success.