- OG Anunoby hits decisive 3-pointer with 5.3 seconds remaining
- Jalen Brunson leads scoring with 23 points and 6 assists
- Memphis commits 19 turnovers resulting in 28 Knicks points
In a heart-stopping NBA Friday night showdown, the New York Knicks emerged victorious against the Memphis Grizzlies through strategic defense and clutch shooting. The game's pivotal moment came when OG Anunoby drained a critical three-pointer from the right wing with mere seconds remaining, capping a back-and-forth fourth quarter that saw six lead changes.
Memphis appeared poised for redemption after their 37-point January loss to New York, dominating rebounds 58-35 behind Jaren Jackson Jr.'s interior presence. However, 19 turnovers proved catastrophic for the Grizzlies, with New York converting these miscues into 28 points - nearly 25% of their total score. This continues a troubling trend for Memphis, who now ranks bottom-five in turnover differential this season.
The Knicks demonstrated remarkable resilience despite playing without Julius Randle, with Deuce McBride's 17 bench points providing crucial support. Mitchell Robinson's season debut added defensive intensity, limiting Memphis to 42% shooting in the paint during his 12-minute stint. His return signals improved rim protection for New York as they push for playoff positioning.
Three critical factors decided this thriller:
- Fourth-quarter execution: Knicks shot 58% from deep in final period
- Transition defense: New York scored 22 fast-break points
- Bench production: Knicks reserves outscored Memphis' 34-19
Ja Morant's 25-point performance nearly salvaged the game for Memphis, but his driving layup attempt with 0.8 seconds left rolled off the rim. The loss drops the Grizzlies to 2-8 in games decided by three points or fewer this season, highlighting late-game execution issues. Meanwhile, New York improves to 7-3 in similar contests, showcasing Tom Thibodeau's crunch-time coaching prowess.
This matchup underscores the growing importance of perimeter defense in modern NBA strategies. The Knicks' ability to switch screens effectively neutralized Memphis' pick-and-roll game, forcing 12 second-half turnovers. As teams increasingly prioritize three-point shooting, such defensive adaptability becomes paramount - a lesson the Grizzlies must learn quickly.
Looking ahead, New York faces a critical test against Miami's physical defense on Sunday. For Memphis, reducing turnovers against San Antonio's young roster could provide the momentum boost needed to salvage their homestand. Both teams' playoff aspirations hang in the balance as the regular season enters its final stretch.
