NEW YORK — OG Anunoby scored 19 of his 32 factors in an ideal third quarter to maintain up the most effective scoring stretch of his profession, even with Jalen Brunson returning to New York’s lineup, because the Knicks beat the Phoenix Suns 112-98 on Sunday night time.
Brunson had 15 factors and 6 assists after lacking 15 video games with a sprained proper ankle that he sustained precisely a month earlier. The Knicks did not want a lot from their all-star guard, particularly whereas Anunoby was going 7-for-7 within the third quarter, 5-for-5 from three-point vary.
The Knicks improved to 50-28, giving them consecutive 50-win seasons for the primary time since having 4 in a row from 1991-92 by means of 1994-95. Karl-Anthony Cities had 19 factors and 13 rebounds, and Mikal Bridges scored 22 factors towards his former staff.
Devin Booker scored 40 factors for the Suns, who’ve misplaced six straight after a three-game street journey wherein they performed with out Kevin Durant due to a sprained left ankle.
Suns: The Suns are eleventh within the Western Convention and have work to do within the closing week of the common season simply to get into the play-in event to have any hopes of creating the playoffs.
Knicks: With Deuce McBride additionally returning Sunday and scoring eight factors after lacking eight video games with a groin harm, the Knicks are wholesome for a closing week wherein they may play Cleveland, Boston and potential first-round opponent Detroit.
With the Knicks main by 10, Anunoby made consecutive three-pointers, and after a Suns basket, blew by a defender for a dunk. He adopted one other Phoenix basket with one other three-pointer for a private 11-4 run and a 78-61 lead.
Anunoby has scored 20 or extra factors in a career-best 10 straight video games.
The Knicks host Boston on Tuesday. The Suns are at Golden State on Tuesday.