Jalen Brunson’s 55-point performance secures an overtime victory for the Knicks.©(@NBA_NewYorkJalen )
Jalen Brunson delivered a career-high 55 points, including nine crucial points in overtime, to lead the New York Knicks to a thrilling 136-132 victory over the Washington Wizards. The win extends the Knicks’ impressive streak to seven consecutive victories and caps off a dominant December, where they secured 11 wins in 13 games. Karl-Anthony Towns also contributed significantly, recording 30 points and 14 rebounds as the Knicks continue their climb with 17 wins in their last 21 outings.
The Wizards, playing without injured leading scorer Jordan Poole, were led by Justin Champagnie’s standout performance. Champagnie posted 31 points and 10 rebounds, securing his second career double-double. Despite his efforts, Washington fell short in the overtime battle.
In other Saturday NBA action, the Los Angeles Lakers triumphed over the Sacramento Kings with a 132-122 win, even as LeBron James missed the game due to illness. Anthony Davis dominated with 36 points and 15 rebounds, while Austin Reaves showcased versatility with 26 points and 16 assists. The Kings, adjusting to the departure of head coach Mike Brown and under interim coach Doug Christie, suffered their sixth consecutive loss.
The Oklahoma City Thunder, sitting atop the Western Conference, extended their regular-season winning streak to 10 games by defeating the Charlotte Hornets 106-94. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 22 points, supported by Jalen Williams’ 20 points. Meanwhile, Charlotte’s struggles continued as they endured their seventh straight loss.
In San Francisco, the Golden State Warriors snapped a three-game losing streak with a 109-105 victory over the Phoenix Suns. Jonathan Kuminga shone off the bench, scoring 34 points, while Stephen Curry added 22 points to secure the win.
The Denver Nuggets held off a late surge from the Detroit Pistons for a 134-121 victory. Nikola Jokic delivered a masterclass with 37 points, while Jamal Murray added 34 to help the Nuggets maintain control despite the Pistons’ spirited fourth-quarter rally.
Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey each scored 32 points to lead the Philadelphia 76ers to a narrow 114-111 victory over the Utah Jazz in Salt Lake City. The win further solidifies the 76ers’ strong form as they navigate the competitive Eastern Conference.
Also Read: LeBron James Sets Christmas Record in Lakers’ Epic Win
The Trail Blazers edged the Dallas Mavericks 126-122 in a tightly contested game in Portland. The Mavericks were without Luka Dončić, who missed another game due to a calf strain. Despite their star player’s absence, Dallas fought valiantly but fell short.
The Atlanta Hawks secured their third consecutive win with a 120-110 victory over the Miami Heat. Jalen Johnson spearheaded the Hawks’ performance with a double-double of 28 points and 13 rebounds.
In Chicago, the Bulls snapped their three-game losing streak with a 116-111 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks. Josh Giddey made a triumphant return from a four-game absence, recording a remarkable triple-double with 23 issues, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists to lead the Bulls to a much-needed win.
Saturday’s action showcased standout individual performances, dramatic finishes, and key victories as teams continue to battle for positioning in the NBA standings.
