Karl-Anthony Towns Thrills Knicks Fans with Clutch FGs in Win vs. RJ Barrett, Raptors
December 10, 2024
R.J. Barrett's hopes of picking up a victory over his former team were spoiled Monday night as Karl-Anthony Towns' clutch buckets secured the New York Knicks a 113-108 win over the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto.
Towns finished the night with a double-double, recording 24 points, 15 rebounds, six assists, two steals and two blocks while shooting 54 percent from the field in the victory. Mikal Bridges added 23 points, three rebounds and three assists.
The 7'0" big-man wowed fans as he sealed the game for the Knicks, pushing them to a 15-9 record on the season, while the Raptors dropped to 7-18.
On the other side, Barrett tried to lead his new team past his former squad of five seasons, tallying 30 points, eight rebounds and four assists while shooting 54 percent from the field.
OG Anunoby opened the scoring for the Knicks with a three-pointer off Bridges' assist, following a 5-0 start by the Raptors. The Knicks rallied to take a 34-27 lead by the end of the first quarter.
The Raptors responded by outscoring the Knicks 34-26 in the second quarter, capped by a pair of free throws from Scottie Barnes, giving Toronto a 61-60 advantage at halftime.
Towns posted 10 points by halftime, while Bridges and Brunson each recorded nine. For the Raptors, Barrett led the way with 17 points at the break.
Coming out of halftime, Brunson scored back-to-back buckets to push the Knicks ahead 64-61. The game remained tightly contested as both teams traded baskets down the stretch.
RJ Barrett tied the game at 108-108 with 42 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter. However, his efforts fell short as Towns added five points in the final 36 seconds, securing the Knicks' victory and spoiling Barrett's hopes of revenge.
The Knicks will look to keep their winning-streak going against the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday at home.