A Thrilling Victory on the Road
The New York Knicks secured a memorable victory over the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday night, thanks to a last-second game-winner by OG Anunoby. The win was a testament to the team’s resilience and strategic play, highlighting several intriguing storylines. Among them, the return of center Mitchell Robinson after a 10-month hiatus and the continued clutch performances by Jalen Brunson. Coach Tom Thibodeau spoke after the game, offering insights into the significance of Robinson’s comeback and the team’s cohesive execution in the game’s final moments.
Mitchell Robinson’s Triumphant Return
After a long 10-month absence, Mitchell Robinson made his return to the Knicks lineup on Friday. Although he didn’t start, Robinson provided valuable minutes off the bench, contributing six points on 3-of-4 shooting, five rebounds, and one assist. His presence on the court was crucial, as he was a team-high plus-11 during his 12 minutes of play. Robinson’s return added a different dimension to the team, making the Knicks much bigger and more formidable in the paint.
Thibodeau praised Robinson’s performance, noting, "Getting Mitch back was a big plus for us. Mitch getting in there, in I think 12 minutes, five rebounds – great, great. It gives us a different element to our team. It makes us a lot bigger." The coach’s decision to keep Robinson on the floor during the final plays was a bold move, especially considering the center had not played a game since last spring. However, Thibodeau’s trust in Robinson paid off, as the big man played a crucial role in the final moments.
Robinson’s Critical Role in the Final Play
Despite the long layoff, Robinson demonstrated his value in the final play. After Ja Morant’s layup was missed, thanks in part to Mikal Bridges’ defensive effort, Robinson boxed out Santi Aldama, preventing a potential tip-in. This critical play helped seal the Knicks’ win. "For first game back for the amount of time that he’s been out, I thought it was really, really good," Thibodeau said. "We’ve been seeing it in practice, too. So this is the next step. And so, just having the pick and roll defense and the rim protection, the rebounding. He made a lot of good plays, just moving in penetration, the pressure on the rim offensively, those things are huge. It opens up space for us. And it’s really a game of space. So the more you can create space, the better your offense is going to be."
Robinson’s return not only provided a physical presence but also a psychological boost to the team. His ability to step up in crunch time, especially after such a long absence, underscores the trust and respect he has earned within the organization.
Jalen Brunson’s clutch Performance
Jalen Brunson’s performance in the game’s final moments was nothing short of spectacular. Known affectionately as "Captain Crunch" for his clutch play, Brunson has been instrumental in the Knicks’ recent victories, including wins against the Bulls and 76ers since the All-Star break. On Friday, Brunson’s fingerprints were all over the finish, as he made a crucial three-pointer with 25 seconds left and then found a wide-open Anunoby for the game-winner.
Thibodeau praised the team’s execution in the final minutes, highlighting the importance of teamwork and unselfish play. "That’s what I loved about the end of the game because it was great team play," Thibodeau said. "What you can’t get lost was the screen that Josh [Hart] set, when Jalen hit the three. Was a tremendous play, very unselfish, but a great, great screen. And then, Jalen and getting into the paint and finding OG, and OG relocating to find the space and then hitting the shot."
Brunson’s final stat line—23 points on 10-of-23 shooting, seven rebounds, six assists, three steals, and one block—demonstrates his all-around contributions to the team’s success. Thibodeau was particularly impressed by Brunson’s decision-making in crunch time. "He’s a big-time shot maker, but it’s also his teammates and understanding what you have to do; it takes five guys to execute," Thibodeau said. "To create the shots for him, and then he’s got to make them, which is another element. And then he’s also got to make the right reads. I thought the pass, he didn’t force it. That was the right play, and it was a great play. OG was right and ready and had great shot preparation and he let it fly, and it was beautiful. That’s what it takes."
Teamwork and Trust
The Knicks’ victory was a prime example of the importance of teamwork and trust within the squad. From Robinson’s defensive presence to Brunson’s clutch playmaking, each player fulfilled their roles to perfection. Thibodeau’s emphasis on the team’s unselfish play and collective effort highlights the depth and cohesion of the Knicks.
The coach’s decision to keep Robinson on the floor during the final plays, despite his long absence, is a testament to the trust he has in his players. Robinson’s acknowledgment of this trust was heartfelt, saying, "He trusts me, you know? Missing 10 months and to put me in a big spot, position right there to get a stop or whatever, means a lot. Shows that he trusts me a lot. Still rocks with me."
Looking Ahead
The Knicks’ win against the Grizzlies is a significant step in their ongoing journey. With key players like Robinson returning and Brunson continuing to perform at a high level, the team is well-positioned to make a strong push in the latter part of the season. Thibodeau’s leadership and the team’s cohesive play are key factors in their success, and the future looks bright for the Knicks.
As the team moves forward, the focus will remain on maintaining their level of play and building on the momentum gained from this thrilling victory. The return of Mitchell Robinson and the continued clutch performances by Jalen Brunson are crucial components of this success, and the Knicks are poised to continue their winning ways.
