In a Sunday matchup, the New York Knicks defeated the Brooklyn Nets 113-105, with Landry Shamet leading the way with a season-high 29 points. Shamet stepped up early in the game, replacing Mikal Bridges just 6 seconds in. Bridges had started the game to keep his consecutive games streak alive at 556, but quickly fouled out and left the court. The Knicks, already secured as the No. 3 seed in the Eastern Conference, rested several key players including Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, Josh Hart, and OG Anunoby ahead of the playoffs against Detroit. Cam Payne contributed 21 points, while Precious Achiuwa added 18 for the Knicks. Tyrese Martin and Trendon Watford each scored 20 points for the Nets, who finished their season at 26-56.
Coach Tom Thibodeau chose to rest his starters to avoid potential injuries, prioritizing their well-being over finding rhythm after a recent string of losses. The Nets had already benched their top players before the finale. The Knicks secured their 51-31 season record and extended their winning streak against the Nets to 10 games. The all-time series now leans in favor of the Knicks at 111-107 following their sweep in 2024-25. The Knicks are now preparing for the playoffs against Detroit, while the Nets look ahead to the upcoming draft lottery.
