LeBron James and Lakers Halt Knicks’ Streak, Defeating New York 113-105

In a highly anticipated matchup featuring LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers, the New York Knicks fell short of extending their impressive winning streak, losing 113-105 at Madison Square Garden on Saturday night. Jalen Brunson’s outstanding effort wasn’t enough to overcome the Lakers’ late surge.

Brunson, making his first All-Star appearance, faced relentless double teams throughout the game, especially in the crucial fourth quarter. Despite his remarkable 36-point, 10-assist performance – marking his ninth game with 30 or more points in his last 11 appearances – the Knicks were unable to secure their 10th consecutive victory. The team now stands at 32-18 for the season.

The Knicks maintained control through three quarters, leading 86-80, but struggled in the fourth. They missed 13 of their first 16 shots, enduring a nearly seven-minute scoreless stretch. Donte DiVincenzo’s impressive 26 points, including six three-pointers, and Josh Hart’s double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds were not enough to overcome the Lakers’ late-game surge.

LeBron James, guarded primarily by Precious Achiuwa, contributed 24 points, while Anthony Davis, returning from a brief absence, added 11 points and an outstanding 19 rebounds. The Lakers’ victory elevated their record to 26-25.

Before the game, James praised Brunson, calling him “phenomenal” and expressing his happiness for the young point guard’s All-Star selection. The crowd at Madison Square Garden showcased a significant presence of LeBron and Lakers fans, with loud applause for James’ early dunks and impressive plays by Davis and Rui Hachimura.

The Knicks struggled from beyond the arc, missing their first seven attempts from three-point range. Despite DiVincenzo’s efforts to rally the team, the Lakers held a 27-25 lead after the first quarter. The Knicks found their rhythm in the second quarter, tying the game at 59-59 by halftime.

In the third quarter, DiVincenzo’s three-pointers helped the Knicks maintain a slim advantage, but the Lakers’ strong fourth-quarter start, led by James and Taurean Prince, turned the tide. The Lakers secured the win with a 9-0 run to open the final quarter, capitalizing on turnovers and defensive intensity.

Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau acknowledged the Lakers’ persistent double-teaming of Brunson throughout the game and emphasized the need to trust the pass and continue shooting when open. Despite the defeat, the Knicks remain a formidable force in the Eastern Conference, aiming to bounce back in their next outing.