Shorthanded Knicks Lean on Depth to Earn High-Scoring Win After Brunson Injury

The New York Knicks’ recent homestand took an unexpected downward turn with their first home loss of the season, a defeat to the Orlando Magic that exposed both fatigue and risk management concerns. The loss came on the second night of a back-to-back, but the more damaging development occurred late in the fourth quarter. Head coach Mike Brown left his starters on the floor during garbage time, and Jalen Brunson rolled his ankle—an injury that will sideline the All-Star guard for at least a week and likely longer.

Brunson’s absence immediately created a major void in New York’s offensive structure. That concern grew further on Friday night when OG Anunoby exited early against the Miami Heat with an injury of his own, leaving the Knicks down two of their top two-way contributors. With major pieces suddenly missing, the team faced a significant test in its first game without its star floor general.

That challenge ultimately produced one of New York’s most impressive efforts of the season. Against a playoff-caliber Heat team, the Knicks delivered a 140–132 victory driven by collective scoring, opportunistic play and a sharp offensive rhythm that compensated for their absences. It was their first win of the season without Brunson, and it offered a glimpse of how the group can survive short stretches without its stars.

Still, the long-term outlook remains cautious. While the Heat win highlighted the Knicks’ depth and resilience, the team knows such performances won’t be sustainable indefinitely with Brunson and Anunoby sidelined.

1. Unexpected Scoring Surge Leads the Way

Landry Shamet delivered the most surprising performance of the night, providing the spark New York desperately needed. The veteran guard posted a career-high 36 points in 37 minutes, shooting 12-for-19 from the field and knocking down six of his 12 attempts from beyond the arc. His scoring came naturally within the flow of the offense, offering efficient and timely shotmaking that lifted the Knicks in key stretches. But New York’s offense required more than a single hot hand to outpace Miami. Karl-Anthony Towns stepped into the primary scoring role early, erupting for 31 first-half points and finishing with 39 overall. His shooting—13-for-26 from the field and 6-for-14 from deep—forced the Heat to stretch their defensive coverage and opened up clean looks for others. Jordan Clarkson also played a pivotal role, adding 24 points on 6-for-13 shooting while making half of his three-point attempts. His scoring punch stabilized New York’s second unit and provided consistent shot creation, areas typically anchored by Brunson. By night’s end, Shamet, Towns, and Clarkson combined for 99 points on 53.4% shooting. Considering the trio averaged just 37 points collectively prior to the game, the Knicks’ offensive outburst showcased how multiple contributors can elevate their play when circumstances demand it.

2. Robinson’s Dominance on the Glass Fuels Extra Opportunities

Mitchell Robinson’s impact came in fewer minutes but was equally vital. Limited to 14 minutes due to ongoing injury management from Mike Brown, the center made the most of his time by controlling the offensive glass. Robinson grabbed 10 rebounds overall—eight of them offensive—providing New York with a steady stream of second-chance scoring chances. The Knicks ultimately outscored the Heat 20–10 in second-chance points, a margin that proved decisive in a high-scoring contest. Robinson’s ability to create additional possessions was critical, particularly with two primary scorers unavailable. His performance was not an outlier. Including Friday’s win, Robinson is averaging roughly six offensive rebounds in just 16 minutes per game—an elite rate that translates to 13 offensive boards per 36 minutes. His presence continues to be one of the Knicks’ most reliable sources of extra offense. Even with Brown exercising caution regarding Robinson’s minutes, the center’s physicality and instincts around the rim remain central to New York’s identity. His ability to tilt games through sheer effort helped offset some of what the Knicks lost without Brunson and Anunoby on the court.

3. Bridges Steadies the Backcourt Amid Shifting Roles

With Brunson unavailable, the Knicks needed someone to steady the offense, direct traffic, and initiate possessions. Mikal Bridges assumed that responsibility. Starting alongside Miles McBride, Bridges handled the bulk of the team’s playmaking duties while still providing his trademark defense and versatility. Bridges delivered an all-around performance: 15 points, five rebounds, five assists, seven steals, and two blocks in 42 minutes. While he did not take over as a primary scorer, his poise and ability to manage the offense ensured the team maintained its structure. His defensive activity also helped generate momentum-shifting plays throughout the night. The Knicks will need more of that stability as long as Brunson remains out. Bridges’ expanded role illustrates just how much the team will depend on its depth and adaptability during this stretch. Still, as encouraging as the win was, the Knicks recognize that this formula is not sustainable indefinitely. With two starters sidelined, they will need resilience, balanced scoring and continued defensive tenacity to stay afloat. And ultimately, they will need Brunson and Anunoby back to maintain long-term competitiveness.