Bridges propels Knicks over Raptors 119-92

TORONTO – Mikal Bridges netted 30 points, including 19 in the third quarter, as the New York Knicks defeated the Toronto Raptors 119-92 on Wednesday.

OG Anunoby recorded 26 points and a season-high six steals against his former team as New York (29-18) secured its fourth consecutive victory.

Karl-Anthony Towns scored eight points but grabbed 22 rebounds for the Knicks.

Scottie Barnes achieved a double-double with 17 points and 10 rebounds as Toronto (29-20) had its four-game winning streak halted.

Brandon Ingram contributed 27 points and six rebounds, while RJ Barrett from Mississauga, Ontario, added 14 points and eight rebounds in just 24 minutes of action as he recovers from a sprained ankle.

Rookie forward Collin Murray-Boyles (thumb) made his return to the Raptors lineup, scoring four points and collecting five rebounds. Center Jakob Poeltl (lower back) remained sidelined.

Takeaways

Knicks: Prior to the game, Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic emphasized that securing offensive rebounds would be crucial for success. Towns's control of the boards provided New York with numerous second and third chances, allowing them to outplay Toronto.

Raptors: Strong defense and precise scoring in the first half allowed Toronto to lead by as much as 12 points. However, poor ball handling — the Raptors committed eight turnovers in the third quarter — incited a 13-0 run for the Knicks, who ended the third quarter with a 12-point lead heading into the final period.

Key moment

Bridges tallied 11 straight points in the last 2:36 of the third quarter, propelling New York to a 12-point advantage.

Key stat

Toronto fell to 0-8 against the Knicks since trading Anunoby and Precious Achiuwa to New York for Barrett and Immanuel Quickley on December 30, 2023.