Suns 118, Knicks 110: Postgame Reaction
The Knicks got up big early over the Suns, but ultimately a big run by Phoenix and an absolutely dominant performance from Chris Paul down the stretch ended the win streak at nine.
One paragraph to describe the game
The Knicks came out scorching the nets in this one, getting up by as much as 15 in the first half, even with Julius Randle struggling to find himself. Ultimately, the Suns chipped and chipped at the lead, and ultimately were able to take the lead in the second half. Things stayed tight all the way until the end, but Chris Paul iced the game with seven straight points for the Suns, and the Knicks’ best win streak since 2012-13 ended at the hands of the No. 2 seed in the West.
Game ball
Derrick Rose: 22 points, 6 rebounds, 6 assists, 10-18 shooting
Rose turned back the clock 10 years or so, guiding the Knicks’ offense and giving them the critical buckets and assists they needed throughout this one, particularly with Randle and RJ Barrett not having their best games ever. He also notably closed the game with the starting lineup, which hopefully is foreshadowing a change.
Big stat
The Suns’ starters outscored the Knicks’ starters 86-63. That’s made even more impressive when you consider that the Knicks hopped out to a 23-12 lead before the first subs of the game.
Unsung hero
Obi Toppin gave the Knicks 10 quality minutes again, which allowed Randle to get his rest when needed. Not that it ultimately mattered much with Randle not being himself, but Obi’s been continually giving quality minutes of late.
Other significant performances
Reggie Bullock: 17 points, 4-8 from three
RJ Barrett: 17 points, 4 rebounds, 2 assists
Julius Randle: 18 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists
