by Murat Karul
In a sensational display, the New York Knicks continued their winning streak, securing their fifth consecutive victory with a commanding 112-84 triumph over the Portland Trail Blazers on Tuesday night. The Knicks’ newfound forward, OG Anunoby, played a pivotal role, scoring 23 points – his highest since joining the team. Anunoby’s impact was evident early on, as he contributed 16 points in a first quarter that saw the Knicks establish a 19-point lead, eventually extending it to a formidable 39 points in the third quarter.
Coach Tom Thibodeau praised Anunoby for his multifaceted contributions, emphasizing his defensive prowess, off-ball movement, fast-paced transitions, and impressive shot-making abilities. Anunoby’s stellar performance has coincided with the Knicks’ unbeaten run since his inclusion in the lineup, showcasing the positive impact of his trade from Toronto on December 30.
Julius Randle added 20 points, eight assists, and seven rebounds to the Knicks’ winning effort, propelling them to fourth place in the Eastern Conference with a 22-15 record. Quentin Grimes and Miles McBride also made significant contributions, scoring 17 and 16 points, respectively.
Anunoby’s remarkable play has left fans chanting his name and has undoubtedly exceeded expectations following the trade that brought him to New York. The Knicks have outscored their opponents by an impressive 85 points in the four games Anunoby has played.
Despite Jerami Grant’s 21 points for the Trail Blazers, they suffered their fourth loss in five games, struggling to contain the Knicks’ fast-paced offense. The Knicks dominated in fast-break points, outscoring the Blazers 25-11.
Looking ahead, the Trail Blazers will face the Oklahoma City Thunder on Thursday, while the Knicks are set to visit the Dallas Mavericks. The Knicks’ resurgence with Anunoby on board has injected optimism and excitement into the team and its fan base, signaling a promising trajectory for the remainder of the season.
