Knicks Brave Jalen Brunson Injury, Conquer Cavaliers in Emotional Win
With Jalen Brunson lost to an early injury, the "Nova Knick" contingent left behind made up for his departure and then some on Sunday night at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse.
Josh Hart put for his third triple-double while Donte DiVincenzo handled business from his outside domain as the New York Knicks survived Brunson's medically-induced departure in a 107-98 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Facing the dangerous prospect of their second three-game losing streak in the span of three weeks, the Knicks (36-25) picked up an emotional triumph against a familiar foe, one that currently sits second in the Eastern Conference ... albeit also one that was missing its star attraction in the form of Donovan Mitchell.
Hart capped off a thrilling career night in style with the dagger from deep in front of the Cleveland bench, good for the last three of 13 points paired with 19 rebounds (tying a career-high) and 10 assists. Sunday's box score proved historic for Hart, who became just the sixth Knick to earn at least three triple-doubles in a single season (the first since injured teammate Julius Randle in 2020-21).
Camped out at the top of the key, DiVincenzo built a 28-point night on six three-pointers while Miles McBride, pressed into 47 minutes of service after Brunson went down, hit four more off the bench. Though his regular outside magic was missing, fellow reserve Bojan Bogdanovic had 20, his lone successful three becoming four during a crucial possession that withstood a flurry of outside attacks on the Cavs' end, one paced by seven in relief from Sam Merrill.
Brunson was forced to leave in the opening minute of Sunday's game, apparently wounded when he got unintentionally clipped by Isaiah Hartenstein, who was setting a screen. Officially diagnosed with a "sore left knee," Brunson was originally listed as questionable but was ruled out for the remainder of the game. If the ailment proves lasting, Brunson joins a lengthy injury list that already features no timetables for the return of Randle and OG Anunoby.
The Knicks are back in action on Tuesday night when they begin a four-game homestand
