Collin Sexton delivered a standout performance with a season-best 26 points, while reigning NBA All-Star Lauri Markkanen marked his comeback with a strong 23-point showing, leading the Utah Jazz to a 117-113 victory over the New York Knicks.
“I was just reading the game and just picking and choosing what they gave me. Don’t try to overdrive or get too far in the lane,” Sexton said. “Just play. Don’t try to overthink.”
Sexton adapted his play to the game’s flow, avoiding overcomplication. He felt an added responsibility to steer the team after Keyonte George’s early exit due to a sprained ankle. Coach Will Hardy entrusted Sexton with game facilitation, recognizing his commitment to giving his all in every game.
“Once Key came out, Coach (Will Hardy) wanted me to facilitate the game … and he knows I’m going to give it 110% each and every night,” Sexton said.
NBA SCORES & NEWS: Collin Sexton, Utah Jazz, New York Knicks Updates
Markkanen, returning after an eight-game absence due to a hamstring injury, displayed versatility by scoring inside and from the perimeter. Despite a limited playtime of 25 minutes, he managed 7 of 13 field goals and eight rebounds while knocking down four 3-pointers.
“I knew I’d be going in short stints, so I tried to stay aggressive and get me going early,” Markkanen said. “But yeah, felt good to see a couple shots go in and be out there with my teammates.”
Talen Horton-Tucker emerged as a key contributor for Utah, especially in the fourth quarter, scoring 13 of his total 15 points. His effort was pivotal in a 16-0 run that spanned the third and fourth quarters.
Julius Randle led the Knicks with 32 points and 12 rebounds but was restricted in the final quarter, scoring only from the free-throw line. Jalen Brunson and Donte DiVincenzo added 23 and 20 points for New York, respectively. However, the Knicks struggled with their road performance, facing their third consecutive away defeat.
NBA SCORES & NEWS: Collin Sexton, Utah Jazz, New York Knicks Updates
Brunson emphasized the need for improved hustle and defensive effort as the team’s shooting woes continued, evident in their 9 of 39 performance from the 3-point range.
“We did a good job of not quitting to the end and almost made a comeback,” Brunson said.
Despite trailing by 17 points, the Knicks nearly staged a comeback, closing in at 115-112. Josh Hart and Brunson missed crucial 3-pointers that could have tied the game. Coach Tom Thibodeau acknowledged the team’s shooting challenges, emphasizing the creation of good shots despite the outcome.
“That was sort of like the story of the game. You’re going to have nights like that, and I thought we created a lot of good shots,” Thibodeau said.
NBA SCORES & NEWS: Collin Sexton, Utah Jazz, New York Knicks Updates
For Utah, Sexton’s seven assists and Olynyk’s all-around performance with nine points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists were crucial in breaking their three-game losing streak. Coach Hardy praised the team’s defensive focus and efforts to disrupt Brunson’s rhythm.
“We’ve had a lot of tough games, but tonight their attention to detail defensively was very good,” Hardy said. “We made Jalen Brunson really work tonight. That was a big highlight for us, trying to change the rhythm of the game a little bit with him and not be so reactionary.”
Looking ahead, the Knicks will face the Phoenix Suns on Friday, while the Jazz will meet the Portland Trail Blazers on Thursday night.
