Jalen Brunson’s contribution of 29 points and nine assists, coupled with Donte DiVincenzo’s record-breaking nine 3-pointers, propelled the New York Knicks to a 118-103 victory over the Utah Jazz during Tuesday’s NBA action, marking their eighth consecutive win.
DiVincenzo’s 33 points were a standout performance, helping the Knicks close January with a remarkable 14-2 record. This achievement mirrored the team’s historic success in March 1994 and was just short of their December 1968 record. Brunson acknowledged the unexpected nature of this success but emphasized the team’s consistent improvement.
“I’d be lying if I said I saw this coming,” Brunson said. “But I think one thing I do know is that we’re going to continue to get better every single day, and that’s what we’ve been able to do.”
The Knicks had to navigate the absence of key forwards Julius Randle and OG Anunoby, but Precious Achiuwa stepped up with 18 points. Josh Hart achieved his first career triple-double, becoming the 10th player in NBA history to record a precise 10-10-10 in points, rebounds, and assists. Isaiah Hartenstein also contributed significantly with 14 points and 12 rebounds.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks, Lauri Markkanen, Utah Jazz Updates
For the Jazz, Collin Sexton led with 22 points. Despite a more competitive effort than their previous loss in Brooklyn, the Jazz couldn’t match the Knicks’ intensity, ending their road trip with a 2-4 record. Jazz coach Will Hardy expressed concern about the team’s lack of physicality in consecutive games.
“We’re just not doing a good enough job of being physical, and this is two nights in a row where a team has made us pay for it,” Hardy said.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks, Lauri Markkanen, Utah Jazz Updates
The Knicks decisively pulled away in the third quarter, outscoring the Jazz 36-24, with Brunson scoring 13 points in that period alone. This win further improved the Knicks’ season record, positioning them close to the top of the Eastern Conference standings.
“We’re playing well, we’re playing to our strengths, and we are just having good vibes,” Hart said.
NBA NEWS & SCORES: Jalen Brunson, New York Knicks, Lauri Markkanen, Utah Jazz Updates
With injuries to key players like Randle, Anunoby, and Mitchell Robinson out due to ankle surgery, the Knicks signed 38-year-old Taj Gibson on a 10-day contract. Gibson’s late-game appearance was met with enthusiastic chants from the fans.
Looking ahead, the Jazz will return home to face the Philadelphia 76ers, while the Knicks are set to host the Indiana Pacers in their next games.
