Jalen Brunson led the Knicks to a crucial victory over the Hawks, showcasing his skills against a tough defense.
New York: The Knicks faced off against the Atlanta Hawks on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, and it was a big deal. Coach Tom Thibodeau knew the Hawks’ defense had given them trouble before, especially with Dyson Daniels putting pressure on Jalen Brunson.
This time, Brunson turned the tables. He scored 34 points, leading the Knicks to a 119-110 win at Madison Square Garden. He shot an impressive 12-of-18 from the field and made 3-of-5 three-pointers. Brunson was smart, drawing fouls on Daniels and forcing him to sit out crucial minutes.
Brunson explained how he used Daniels’ aggressive style against him. He said, “When you see something like [Daniels’ pressure], you’re trying to make the right play.” His strategy worked, and it was clear he was in control of the game.
Daniels got frustrated, picking up a technical foul and eventually fouling out. Brunson even had a little back-and-forth with him late in the game, but he showed respect for Daniels’ skills. “He’s a great defender,” Brunson said, acknowledging the challenge he posed.
Brunson started strong, scoring eight points in the first quarter while Daniels was on the bench. He kept attacking, using screens and making tough shots. Thibodeau reminded everyone that sometimes you just have to keep shooting, and Brunson did just that.
Brunson’s teammates also helped out by adjusting their play. They took turns bringing the ball up, allowing Brunson to save energy for scoring. Karl-Anthony Towns played a key role, assisting Brunson on several plays.
This win was crucial for the Knicks, who had been struggling lately. Brunson emphasized the importance of getting a win at home, especially with a busy schedule ahead. The team showed they could adapt and rise to the occasion, led by their captain’s impressive performance.
Thibodeau and his players believe in Brunson’s ability to shine when it matters most. “He’s always going to come through,” Thibodeau said, and it’s clear that Brunson is a player to watch.
