The Los Angeles Lakers vs New York Knicks thriller was full of twists and turns.
With an overtime win over the New York Knicks, the Los Angeles Lakers are now on an eight-game winning streak, their first since the 2019-20 NBA season.
For the Lakers, LeBron James and Luka Doncic continued their strong form, with both stars finishing with 30-plus-point double-doubles.
As for the Knicks, it was the Jalen Brunson show. Unfortunately, Brunson had to make an early exit during OT after rolling his ankle during a layup attempt.
NBA fans are divided over the Lakers vs Knicks matchup
Despite playing in the regular season, the Lakers vs Knicks contest had the intensity of a playoff game. NBA fans shared their views on the game via X.
“Championship incoming,” a fan wrote.
“I’m loving the new look Lakers,” another added.
“They gonna be fighting for finals MVP,” one fan said of the James-Doncic duo.
While the Lakers’ four-point OT win deserves praise, a plethora of fans were heartbroken to see Brunson’s ankle injury.
“Definitely hoping for a speedy recovery for Brunson.”
“Such a talented player too… I don’t wish this on anyone.”
“Hate seeing guys go down like that.”
Brunson was barely able to walk off the court after the injury, but he made two clutch free throws to give his team a fighting chance in OT. Unfortunately, it didn’t work as the Lakers registered their 40th win of the season.
As for Brunson, he finished the night with 39 points, 4 rebounds, and 10 assists, including eight-straight points for the Knicks in OT.
Shaquille O’Neal breaks down why the Lakers won vs Knicks
James and Doncic’s 63-point effort was the biggest headline of the game. However, NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal made sure to talk about the duo’s impact on their teammates as well.
“They played well. LeBron and Luka did a great job of involving the others. As you saw Gabe Vincent hit two big shots, but listen, they just had a lot of fight,” O’Neal said.
He added: “We were worried about their defense with Luka and not being a great defensive player, but they got timely stops. like I always talk about timely stops versus being a great defensive team.”
Being a beast on the defensive end of the floor has truly transformed the Lakers this season. As Shaq mentioned, Doncic is proving those critics wrong who claimed that he is a defensive liability.
The Lakers will take on the Boston Celtics next, as fans will be expected to be on the edge of their seats for the iconic NBA rivalry at TD Garden.