Jalen Brunson focused on defense, decision-making, and late-game execution after the New York Knicks pulled away for a 103-87 win over the Sacramento Kings on Tuesday night at Madison Square Garden.
The Knicks outscored Sacramento 31-15 in the fourth quarter to earn their third straight victory, closing the game with a group that imposed its will defensively.
“Just the way we played defense and got out and ran,” Brunson said when asked about the closing lineup. “When they brought two to the ball, just making plays and just being able to finish out the game.”
Brunson acknowledged the uneven flow of the contest, especially early, as New York struggled to create separation despite leading scorers on the floor.
“It was ugly game, wasn’t pretty, but we were able to grind it out and find a way to win,” Brunson said. “I think that’s very important for us.”
The Knicks committed 21 turnovers, allowing the Kings to stay within striking distance through three quarters. Brunson took responsibility for those mistakes.
“It more self-inflicted,” he said. “We got to take better care of the ball. We got to make sound decisions.”
Sacramento capitalized on those miscues, with DeMar DeRozan scoring 34 points and consistently attacking in transition and early offense.
“Turnovers and they were converting on them,” Brunson said. “Obviously, DeMar he’s doing what he does now for such a long time.”
Despite the issues, Brunson emphasized how the Knicks closed the game when it mattered most.
“The way we close out that fourth quarter, I think it’s big time for us,” he said.
New York’s defensive improvement over the last three games has been noticeable, holding opponents under control late in games. Brunson credited the shift to focus and detail.
“Our attention to detail, our focus, those are big components for us,” he said. “The little things have to be important.”
Communication has also taken a step forward, according to the Knicks’ captain.
“Our sense of urgency with it,” Brunson said. “How loud we’re talking. How how decisive we are.”
Brunson stressed that decisiveness matters more than perfection on the floor.
“Whether the call is right or wrong, we’re decisive with it,” he said. “We’re able to do it and ready to play off each other.”
Brunson finished with 28 points, including a critical three-pointer and consecutive baskets that broke the game open late. Mikal Bridges added 18 points, while Karl-Anthony Towns posted 17 points and 11 rebounds.
The Knicks improved to 28-18 and will visit Toronto on Wednesday. Sacramento, which has lost six straight, heads to Philadelphia on Thursday.
