- Largest Knicks comeback victory since 2021 season
- Brunson scores 15 clutch points in fourth quarter/OT
- Heat lose backcourt depth with two rotational injuries
- Knicks outscore Miami 58-56 in paint despite early deficit
In a game that mirrored playoff intensity, the New York Knicks delivered their most improbable victory of the season Sunday night. Trailing by 19 points midway through the third quarter, Tom Thibodeau's squad demonstrated why defensive resilience remains their trademark. The turnaround began with a critical 17-5 run to close the third period, cutting Miami's lead to single digits for the first time since the opening tip.
NBA analysts are comparing this performance to the Knicks' legendary 1999 playoff run, where similar grit propelled them to the Finals. While modern basketball emphasizes three-point shooting, New York's 46-38 rebounding advantage proved decisive. Karl-Anthony Towns' 16 rebounds - including 5 offensive boards - created 12 second-chance points that kept hopes alive during the comeback.
The Heat's injury woes compounded their collapse. With Andrew Wiggins and Jaime Jaquez Jr. sidelined, Miami's bench contributed just 18 points compared to New York's 34. Rookie Kel'el Ware's 6 blocks set a franchise record for first-year players, but his late-game absence due to foul trouble left Bam Adebayo vulnerable to double teams.
Regional sports economists note this victory could generate $2.3M in additional playoff revenue for Madison Square Garden. The tri-state area's last comparable comeback occurred in 2012 when the Giants overcame a 12-point fourth-quarter deficit against the 49ers in the NFC Championship. Such dramatic wins typically boost local merchandise sales by 19% within 72 hours.
New York's overtime execution revealed strategic evolution under Thibodeau. The Knicks scored on 83% of their final 12 possessions, utilizing Brunson-Anunoby pick-and-roll actions that Miami failed to counter. This win pushes New York to 3-0 in overtime games this season, tying them with Denver for the league's best clutch record.
