OG Anunoby delivered one of the best performances of his career on Sunday night, scoring 32 points to help the New York Knicks secure a 112-98 win over the Phoenix Suns. His flawless 19-point third quarter, where he went 7-for-7 from the field, propelled the Knicks to their 50th victory of the season.
The Knicks, now 50-28 and third in the Eastern Conference, were boosted by Anunoby’s extraordinary shooting as well as the return of Jalen Brunson. Brunson, who had missed 15 games due to a sprained right ankle, contributed 15 points and six assists. However, it was Anunoby who stole the show, maintaining his hot streak as the team secured their second consecutive 50-win season.
Anunoby’s 32 points were complemented by Karl-Anthony Towns’ 19 points and 13 rebounds, with Mikal Bridges adding 22 points against his former team. The Knicks’ offense clicked during the third quarter, with Anunoby’s perfect shooting performance providing a much-needed cushion as New York outscored Phoenix 34-27 in that period.
The Suns, on the other hand, have been struggling in recent games, losing six straight. Devin Booker scored a game-high 40 points in the loss, but it wasn’t enough to overcome New York’s balanced attack. Phoenix, now 35-43 and 11th in the Western Conference, faces a tough road ahead as they try to secure a spot in the play-in tournament.
With Kevin Durant still sidelined due to a sprained left ankle, the Suns’ offense has been lackluster, with Booker carrying much of the scoring load. Despite his efforts, the Suns could not make up the deficit, especially with New York’s defense containing the rest of Phoenix’s lineup. Bradley Beal contributed 16 points, but struggled with his shooting, finishing 8-of-19 from the field.
In addition to Anunoby’s brilliance, the Knicks benefited from the return of Deuce McBride, who scored eight points in 15 minutes after missing eight games with a groin injury. McBride’s return, along with Brunson’s, signals a fully healthy Knicks team heading into the final week of the regular season.
For the Suns, the loss to New York further complicates their playoff hopes. Phoenix will need to get back on track quickly if they hope to make the play-in tournament and have any shot at playoff contention. They’ll also need to navigate their final stretch of the season without Durant, who remains out with injury.
