Knicks rally by Blazers to clinch playoff spot, as Jalen Brunson resumes court work

March 30, 2025

The New York Knicks continued to stay afloat without their star point guard Jalen Brunson, thanks to strong performances from OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges.

The duo led a second-half rally as the Knicks overcame a double-digit deficit to defeat the Portland Trail Blazers, 110-93, on Sunday evening.

Bridges scored 21 of his 28 points after halftime, finishing the game with a 12-for-22 shooting performance. Anunoby, who had posted 31 points on Friday, followed up with 28 points, marking his sixth consecutive game with at least 23 points.

Their scoring outburst helped cover for a subpar outing from Karl-Anthony Towns, who finished with just 10 points on 4-of-13 shooting.

The Knicks (47-27) secured a playoff spot with the victory, extending their lead in the race for the third seed in the Eastern Conference.

Despite being without Brunson for a 12th straight game due to a sprained ankle, New York improved to 7-5 in his absence. Brunson revealed on Sunday that he has resumed “basketball activities” and hopes to return before the playoffs.

Josh Hart added 14 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds, nearly recording a triple-double.

The game turned in the third quarter, when the Knicks went on a 22-7 run to take a one-point lead heading into the final frame. The Knicks had their moments of highlight-reel plays, including a second-quarter block by Towns that was followed by an athletic tip-in and breakaway layup from Precious Achiuwa.

With the team already missing Brunson, Miles McBride, and Cam Payne due to injuries, Delon Wright (7 points, 35 minutes) made his second straight start, while Tyler Kolek (0 points, 14 minutes) provided backup duties at point guard.

The win marked the second matchup this season between the two teams, with the last encounter just a few weeks ago in Portland, where Bridges hit a game-winning three-pointer at the buzzer in overtime.

While the Blazers (32-43) remain in the hunt for a play-in spot, their hopes are dwindling as they look toward the draft lottery. Anunoby and Bridges ensured that Portland’s path grew even more difficult on Sunday.