Knicks End Nine-Game Skid: Christmas Day Extravaganza Opener
In the opening game of the NBA Christmas Day extravaganza on the 26th, the New York Knicks hosted the Milwaukee Bucks. The Knicks secured a 129:122 victory, with Jalen Brunson delivering the game-high 38 points and four starters scoring in double digits. This triumph not only halted the Bucks’ recent seven-game winning streak but also put an end to the Knicks’ nine-game losing streak against the Bucks.
Dominant First Half: Knicks Showcase Firepower
In the first half, the Knicks showcased formidable firepower, leading 62:51. Despite the Bucks regaining their offensive rhythm in the second half, with a tied score of 36:36 in the third quarter, the Bucks, trailing by only six points with 1 minute and 31 seconds left in the game, couldn’t muster enough firepower to reverse the outcome. Ultimately, the Knicks prevailed 129:122 over the Bucks.
Brunson’s Stellar Performance: A Record-Breaking Christmas Day
The Knicks’ point guard, Jalen Brunson, had a stellar performance, playing 37 minutes, shooting 15 out of 28, and recording 38 points, 4 rebounds, 6 assists, with zero turnovers. His 38 points not only marked a personal high but also set the third-highest scoring record in Knicks’ Christmas Day history, surpassed only by Bernard King’s 60 points in 1984 and Richie Guerin’s 40 points in 1961.
Balanced Scoring Effort: Knicks’ Starters Shine
In this game, four Knicks starters scored in double digits, with Julius Randle contributing 24 points and 9 rebounds, while RJ Barrett rebounded with 21 points and 6 rebounds. This victory also marked the Knicks’ 24th win in Christmas Day games in franchise history.
Sweet Victory at Madison Square Garden: Bucks’ Winning Streak Snapped
The opening clash of the 2023 NBA Christmas Day games saw the historic New York Knicks triumph over the Milwaukee Bucks at Madison Square Garden, securing a sweet 129:122 victory. Led by point guard Jalen Brunson’s explosive 38-point performance, the Knicks snapped the Bucks’ seven-game winning streak and put an end to their own nine-game losing streak against the Bucks.
Brunson’s Record-Breaking Night: Third-Highest Christmas Day Score
Brunson, the standout floor general, played 37 minutes, shooting an impressive 15 out of 28, and set the third-highest scoring record in Knicks’ Christmas Day history, trailing only Bernard King’s 60 points in 1984 and Richie Guerin’s 40 points in 1961. Brunson also contributed 6 assists and 4 rebounds with zero turnovers.
Balanced Attack: Knicks’ Key Contributors
The Knicks had a balanced scoring effort, with a total of four players reaching the 20-point mark. Power forward Julius Randle added 24 points and 9 rebounds, while shooting guard RJ Barrett bounced back with 21 points and 6 rebounds. Additionally, backup guard Immanuel Quickley chipped in with 20 points.
Redemption and Resilience: Avenging a Recent Defeat
This victory not only allowed the Knicks to defend their home court but also avenged their previous 19-point defeat to the Bucks on December 23. Despite the Bucks dominating the Knicks in their earlier matchup, winning by 24 points, the tables turned in favor of the home team in this Christmas Day showdown.
Bucks Unable to Sustain Momentum: Knicks Overcome Star Duo
The Bucks, led by their star duo of Giannis Antetokounmpo and Damian Lillard, each scoring 32 points, were unable to overcome the resilient Knicks. The Bucks, who recently reached the quarterfinals of the midseason tournament with a commanding 24-point victory over the Knicks, found themselves unable to sustain their momentum against the hosts.
Historic Win: Knicks’ Christmas Day Legacy
Antetokounmpo and Lillard’s combined 64 points proved insufficient as the Knicks celebrated their 24th victory in 56 Christmas Day games throughout their history. The Bucks, who have participated in the Christmas Day games for six consecutive years, now hold a record of 3 wins and 3 losses in these marquee matchups.
