Suns use bounce-back defensive performance for win over Knicks
Nov 20, 2022, 2:44 PM | Updated: 3:49 pm
Jalen Brunson #11 of the New York Knicks handles the ball during the first half of the NBA game against the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center on November 20, 2022 in Phoenix, Arizona. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
(Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
The Phoenix Suns bounced back in a big way defensively for a 116-95 win in Sunday’s contest against the New York Knicks.
In Friday’s game against the Utah Jazz, Phoenix surrendered 74 points in the first half and 42 in the first quarter alone. Utah shot 56% from the field and 51% from 3-point land, totaling 134 points on the night.
New York did not get their 42nd point on Sunday until 3:26 remaining in the second quarter. The Knicks shot 40% from the field and 28% from three on the night.
Cam Payne led the way for the Suns in the first half, adding 10 points and three rebounds. Devin Booker struggled to find his shot, going 3-for-10 for nine points and four rebounds.
The bench gave Phoenix solid minutes, adding 15 points, nine rebounds and five assists. The Suns are once again without guards Chris Paul and Landry Shamet, meaning the bench has been thinned out.
The Knicks spread the scoring around with seven different players scoring buckets, led by guard Jalen Brunson with 13 points. New York finished the half on a 17-9 run to close out the half.
The last time Phoenix and New York met was in the 2021 season when Cam Johnson hit the buzzer-beater 3-pointer in his career night.
Catch the second half of the game on Arizona Sports 98.7, ArizonaSports.com or the app.
