Jalen Brunson rediscovered his best form just when the Knicks needed it most.
The Knicks captain led a 19-point comeback on the Chicago Bulls’ home floor to win a tight contest 133-127.
Brunson ended his shooting slump by scoring 14 of his 38 points in the final quarter alone.
“I’m glad to have finally got over that hump,” Brunson admitted.
“Like I said, I had too many unnecessary thoughts in my head. But seeing the ball go in definitely helped me get out of the negative state and into a good rhythm,” he explained.
In the previous four games, Brunson had made just 4 of his 20 three-point attempts.
But last night everything flowed in Chicago, as he finished 13 of 25 from the field, including 6 of 10 from long range.
It was the Brunson we all know. The one for the big moments. The one who always shows up when the Knicks are in trouble.
“I wasn’t worried at all. He always finds a way. Tonight we needed every one of his points. It has definitely never been something that has concerned me,” said Mike Brown.
A big lift from the bench for Mikal Bridges’ off night
And with Mikal Bridges struggling to score efficiently, the Knickerbocker bench stepped up. Especially Jordan Clarkson, who did not play in the previous game against Detroit.
The Filipino player scored 12 of his 18 points in the fourth quarter, and was highly efficient, shooting 7 of 11 from the field.
His team-mate Landry Shamet contributed 14 points and 5 assists, and point guard Tyler Kolek shone again with 9 points, 9 assists and two rebounds, going 3 of 4 from three.
18 PTS OFF THE BENCH FOR JC. wow. https://t.co/oPMZJRzlrh
— NEW YORK KNICKS (@nyknicks) October 29, 2026
Despite everyone’s great effort, the Knicks almost fell short and fatigue began to take its toll in the closing minutes.
It was their second game in less than 24 hours, and they landed in Chicago after 02:00 in the early hours.
“Last night’s game finished very late. But I let my guys know. This is the reality of the NBA. It’s no excuse. We have to find a way to win in situations like this, and my players did. But you could tell they were heavy-legged and tired at the end,” Brown concluded.
Other standouts
Bulls: Norman Powell (30 points); Caleb Wilson (20 points); Matas Buzelis and Jalen Smith (17 points each); Tre Jones (11 points).
Knicks: Brunson (38 points); O.G. Anunoby (23 points); Towns (19 points and 13 rebounds); Clarkson (18 points); Shamet (14 points).
(Cover photo: Reuters)