Fri Apr 11 01:10:00 UTC 2025: **Knicks’ Brunson Returns, Leads Team to Victory Over Suns**
NEW YORK (AP) — Jalen Brunson returned to the Knicks lineup Sunday after a nearly month-long absence due to a right ankle sprain, contributing 15 points and 6 assists in a 112-98 win over the Phoenix Suns. While not his best performance, Brunson hit a crucial three-pointer late in the fourth quarter to secure the victory. He played 34 minutes, acknowledging room for improvement after his injury layoff, the longest of his career.
Brunson’s return bolstered a Knicks team already enjoying a strong performance from OG Anunoby, who scored 32 points, including a 7-of-7 shooting performance in the third quarter. Anunoby’s scoring average has significantly increased since Brunson’s injury, highlighting the team’s collective effort in his absence.
The Knicks, near full strength with the return of Brunson and other players, now look to solidify their position in the Eastern Conference playoffs. They face crucial games against the Celtics and Cavaliers this week, aiming to prove their mettle against top contenders. Securing the East’s No. 3 seed is within reach, needing just one more win or a Pacers loss.
The win also dealt a blow to the playoff hopes of the high-payroll Suns, who are now 2½ games out of the final play-in spot with four games remaining in the regular season. Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau noted Brunson’s improved comfort level as the game progressed, expecting his star point guard to regain his top form quickly. The Knicks’ back-to-back 50-win seasons mark their best performance since the mid-1990s.
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