Brunson returns as Knicks eye 50th win vs. slumping Suns
The New York Knicks (49–28) return to Madison Square Garden tonight for a 7:00 PM ET tip against the Phoenix Suns (35–42), with a significant boost on the way: Jalen Brunson is expected to make his return. With just a few games remaining, New York hopes to lock down their fiftieth win and the third seed in the Eastern Conference.
The Knicks are coming off a convincing 121–105 win over the Hawks in Atlanta yesterday. Meanwhile, the Suns were beaten up in Beantown on Friday, their fifth loss in a row (which followed a four-game win streak). Sitting two games out of the Western Conference play-in picture, they’re desperate to keep their season alive. Kevin Durant remains out with an ankle injury, so the offensive burden falls on Devin Booker and Bradley Beal. The latter shot 0-of-7 in that Boston loss and recorded one point in his 38 minutes. All hail Leon Rose for not chasing that albatross.
The Knicks and Suns last faced off on November 20, 2024, in Phoenix, where New York rolled to a 138–122. Jalen Brunson scored 36 points and Karl-Anthony Towns added 34. The Knicks came out blazing, shooting 72.7% from deep in the first quarter, and never looked back. Devin Booker posted 33 for the Suns, for Phoenix, missing Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal.
Joining Book and Beal in the front court, look for rookie Ryan Dunn (6.4 PPG, 43% FG), Royce O’Neale (9.3 PPG, 4.8 RPG), and rookie Oso Ighodaro (4 PPG, 3.6 RPG).
Prediction
ESPN.com favors New York at 64%. Groovy. The Knicks are certainly poised for a strong showing against a Suns team clinging to playoff hopes.
The Captain would love to replicate his 36-point outburst from his last game against Phoenix, but he’s sure to be a little rusty. We expect him to have a minute restriction in his return from a sprained ankle that sidelined him for 15 games. Phoenix’s Devin Booker continues to score efficiently, but without Kevin Durant, it’s tough sledding, and he’s saddled with two greenhorns in the starting lineup. Karl-Anthony Towns remains a steady force in the frontcourt, and OG Anunoby has unlocked a career-best, other level. The Knicks are well-positioned to take care of business, notch their fiftieth win, and celebrate the Captain’s return with a +15 victory.
Game Details
Date: Sunday, April 6, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Venue: Madison Square Garden, New York, NY
TV Broadcast: MSG
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