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Knicks Edge Past Wizards Behind Star Center's Strong Performance

The New York Knicks beat the Washington Wizards 119-102 behind Karl-Anthony Towns' strong play.
Oct 31, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) drives to the basket against the Chicago Bulls during the second half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images
Oct 31, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) drives to the basket against the Chicago Bulls during the second half at United Center. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images | Kamil Krzaczynski-Imagn Images

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The New York Knicks took down the Washington Wizards 119-102 in a solid victory that showed why this team is tough to beat. Karl-Anthony Towns led the way with clutch shots throughout the night, and the Knicks' defense was strong when it mattered most. This win was all about New York's depth and consistency on both ends of the court.

The game started fast with Towns hitting a three-pointer right away to set the tone. The Knicks jumped out to an early lead, and while the Wizards kept things close behind Alex Sarr and Bilal Coulibaly, New York stayed ahead. The first quarter ended with the Knicks up 30-22.

The offense looked good early, and the Knicks were clicking from outside. Despite some sloppy plays, the team showed they were ready to play a full game.

Knicks Control the Tempo

Towns
Nov 3, 2025; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) reacts during the first half against the Washington Wizards at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Lucas Boland-Imagn Images | Lucas Boland-Imagn Images

The second quarter was where the Knicks really took control. Towns and Jalen Brunson ran the offense smoothly, and the team's ball movement kept the Wizards' defense off-balance. New York built a bigger lead by halftime, holding a 57-54 advantage.

Jordan Clarkson came off the bench for the Knicks and added good minutes. OG Anunoby was active on both ends, getting steals and making cuts to the basket. The Knicks' bench players stepped up big, which showed the team's strength in depth.

The third quarter became a back-and-forth battle. Washington's bench players, led by Sarr inside, made some runs to stay close. But every time the Wizards got within striking distance, the Knicks answered back.

Towns kept hitting shots, and Mikal Bridges made important three-pointers down the stretch. Brunson's leadership kept everything organized. By the end of the quarter, New York had stretched their lead to 98-78, essentially putting the game away.

Closing Out Strong

New York Knicks
Nov 3, 2025; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks guard Josh Hart (3) reacts alongside teammates during the second half against the Washington Wizards at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Lucas Boland-Imagn Images | Lucas Boland-Imagn Images

The fourth quarter saw the Wizards clear their bench with younger players getting minutes, but the Knicks stayed professional and closed out the win. Towns made sure the job was finished, hitting timely shots.

The Knicks' starters rested more in the final quarter, which is a sign of a comfortable victory. The team never let Washington get closer than what the score showed at the end.

This victory shows the Knicks are a complete team. Towns was excellent all night, Brunson controlled the game, and the role players stepped up when needed. For Washington, they tried hard but couldn't match New York's firepower and consistency. The Knicks are proving they belong at the top of the league.

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Published
Jayesh Pagar
JAYESH PAGAR

Jayesh Pagar is currently pursuing Sports Journalism from the London School of Journalism and brings four years of experience in sports media coverage. He has contributed extensively to NBA, WNBA, college basketball, and college football content.