Julius Randle’s double-double of 24 points and 11 rebounds, along with OG Anunoby’s 18 points, propelled the New York Knicks to a 106-94 victory over the injury-riddled Memphis Grizzlies during Saturday’s NBA action. The Knicks extended their recent winning trend with six wins in their last seven matches.
Miles McBride, stepping in for the injured Jalen Brunson, made a significant impact with a career-high 19 points and five assists. The Grizzlies, struggling with injuries, had GG Jackson leading their effort with 20 points and six rebounds. Vince Williams Jr. contributed 17 points, eight rebounds, and eight assists, while Luke Kennard and David Roddy each added 14 points.
A key factor in the Knicks’ win was their dominance in rebounding. They outrebounded the Grizzlies 56-35, with Isaiah Hartenstein tying his career-high of 20 rebounds. Despite committing 23 turnovers, New York leveraged their rebounding strength to secure the win.
“It wasn’t a great game for us in general,” Hartenstein said. “The second half was better, but we need to play better. I actually feel like the first half was embarrassing.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Julius Randle, New York Knicks, Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies Updates
The Knicks turned the game in their favor in the third quarter, ramping up their defensive intensity and going on a 24-8 run. This effort led to them outscoring the Grizzlies 30-15 in the quarter, building a lead that withstood Memphis’ attempts at a comeback in the final period.
Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau, celebrating his 500th career win, acknowledged the issues with turnovers but was pleased with how the team settled down for better shots in the second half.
“I thought the defense picked up in the second half. But our turnovers were problematic. Then we settled down and got better shots,” Thibodeau said.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Julius Randle, New York Knicks, Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies Updates
The Grizzlies’ lineup was severely impacted by injuries, with their top five scorers, including leading scorer Ja Morant and Desmond Bane, sidelined. Jaren Jackson Jr. also missed the game due to a knee contusion, leaving Memphis with eight key players unavailable.
Memphis coach Taylor Jenkins commended his team’s competitive spirit despite acknowledging the turnovers in the third quarter that shifted the game’s momentum.
“I loved how our guys competed,” Jenkins said. “Obviously, in the third quarter, a few too many turnovers that led to their run and the ability to get back in the game and take the lead.”
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Julius Randle, New York Knicks, Ja Morant, Memphis Grizzlies Updates
The Knicks, missing Brunson and his 25.8 points per game average due to a calf contusion, initially struggled, trailing at halftime. Randle noted the adjustments required in Brunson’s absence but emphasized the importance of securing the win despite a sluggish game.
“It was just a sluggish game,” Randle said. “It was all around sloppy, but we found a way to get the win, and that’s what matters”.”
Looking ahead, the Knicks will host the Orlando Magic on Monday, while the Grizzlies face the Golden State Warriors the same night.
