The New York Knicks (35-18) took control with a strong second-quarter run and never looked back, taking down the Indiana Pacers (29-23) with a commanding 128-115 victory on February 12.
New York Knicks Top Performers:
Karl-Anthony Towns 40 PTS | 12 REB | 3 STL | 68.9 FPS
KAT snapped his season-long double-digit scoring streak in a forgettable performance last game but bounced back strong with his fourth 40-point outing. His rebounding and defensive numbers mostly stayed solid, but his scoring has been up and down lately. However, his improved three-point shooting and efficiency today are promising signs.
Josh Hart 30 PTS | 10 REB | 5 AST | 52.5 FPS
Hart has shaken off a knee issue and delivered his best offensive game with his 24th double-double of the season. Known for his steady all-around play, he’s also stepped up offensively, scoring at least 15 points in six straight games, though his three-point shooting and free throws could use some improvement. He’s been a standout rebounder, the only guard among the league’s top 20 rebounders this season, and is on pace to make history as just the fourth guard ever to finish with double-digit rebounds in a season.
Precious Achiuwa 9 PTS | 12 REB | 1 BLK | 28.4 FPS
Achiuwa’s production has been highly up-and-down lately, but he should remain a solid streaming option for rebounds and defensive stats as long as Anunoby is out.
Cameron Payne 9 PTS | 8 AST | 1 STL | 26.2 FPS
Payne had a decent scoring game and a strong playmaking performance in his last two outings, and he delivered both today while also making a positive impact on defense. However, his current role still caps his fantasy potential.
Miles McBride 15 PTS | 4-4 3PT | 3 REB | 19.1 FPS
McBride wasn’t hitting his shots well before this contest, but his defensive impact with steals has helped balance things out. He remains a reliable offensive option and is expected to continue getting regular minutes as a key part of the rotation.
Indiana Pacers Top Performers:
Pascal Siakam 24 PTS | 5 REB | 2 STL | 39.5 FPS
Siakam continues to excel, scoring 20+ points in five games while contributing well in rebounds and steals. His three-point shot remains inconsistent this month, but his efficiency from the field and perfect 29-for-29 performance from the line have been major positives.
Thomas Bryant 18 PTS | 9 REB | 4 AST | 36.8 FPS
Bryant has seen an uptick in minutes lately and has consistently delivered solid scoring and rebounding, along with good value in assists. He’ll be a strong streaming option as long as Turner remains out.
Benedict Mathurin 18 PTS | 3 REB | 4 AST | 30.6 FPS
Mathurin has provided solid scoring lately, but his efficiency has been shaky, and his impact in other areas remains hit-or-miss.
Tyrese Haliburton 16 PTS | 5 REB | 8 AST | 30.0 FPS
Haliburton’s offensive struggles persist this month. While he’s reached double figures with decent three-point numbers, he hasn’t crossed 20 points or gotten to the line much. However, he’s maintained his elite playmaking and has been a standout defensively leading up to this game.
Andrew Nembhard 8 PTS | 2 AST | 3 STL | 20.2 FPS
Nembhard hasn’t been at his best lately but continues to play a big part in the rotation while also making an impact with strong steal numbers. The upcoming break should give him a much-needed reset, and his production afterward should be a good indicator of his performance moving forward.
Biggest Disappointment of the Game:
Jalen Brunson 8 PTS | 7 AST | 3 TO
Brunson was on a tear in his last three games, averaging 35.3 points and 6.7 assists. But he started slow today, got into early foul trouble, and never recovered.
