The
New York Knicks easily defeat the
Charlotte Hornets 113-92
at Spectrum Center behind a huge scoring night by
Jalen Brunson.
With
Julius Randle being announced out for the next few
weeks, Jalen Brunson stepped up big time finishing with 32 points, 4 rebounds,
and 7 assists on 54% shooting. Brunson is having a stellar season, averaging 26.6
points, 3.9 rebounds, and 6.5 assists on 48/43/84 shooting splits. This game
improved his All-Star case and it looks like he will be making his All-Star debut
in Indiana next month. Donte DiVincenzo had a big night as well, scoring 28
points along with 6 rebounds and 5 assists. Josh Hart played a pivotal role in
his 39 minutes, ending with 8 points, 12 rebounds, and 7 assists.
For the Hornets, they were without 1x All-Star
LaMelo Ball
for the second straight game. Brandon Miller took full advantage, finishing
with 29 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 assists on 58% shooting. Miles Bridges ended
with a double-double, scoring 21 points and grabbing 10 boards. Cody Martin started
at the point guard position with no Ball and he had a stat line of 14 points, 6
rebounds, and 8 assists.
This win improves the Knicks record to 30-17 on the season,
which puts them at 4th place in the Eastern Conference. They are
currently on a 7-game winning streak and 0.5 games behind the 3rd
seeded Philadelphia 76ers. The Knicks are looking hot right now and will look
to continue this winning streak tomorrow night when they face off against the
Utah Jazz.
On the other hand, this loss pushes the Hornets down to
10-35 on the year, putting them at 13th in the Eastern Conference.
The Hornets are on a 4-game losing streak, having lost 8 of their last 10. The
Hornets are hoping to get All-Star LaMelo Ball back soon while continuing to
develop their 2nd overall pick Brandon Miller. Their next game will
be on Wednesday night against the Chicago Bulls.