The New York Knicks delivered their most explosive offensive performance of the season Friday night, riding massive nights from Karl-Anthony Towns and Landry Shamet to a 140–130 win over the Miami Heat in NBA Cup Group C play at Madison Square Garden.
Towns powered the Knicks with 39 points, while Shamet came off the bench and erupted for a career-high 36, helping New York overcome early injuries, a slow start, and a relentless Heat offense. The victory lifts both teams to 1–1 in Group C, setting the stage for a crucial rematch Monday in Miami.
New York had to reshuffle immediately when OG Anunoby exited after just two minutes with a left hamstring strain. The Knicks were already without star guard Jalen Brunson, who missed his first game of the season after spraining his right ankle Wednesday in Orlando.
Despite the setbacks, New York found its spark. Towns ignites momentum swing
Trailing 62–61 late in the second quarter, Towns seized control. The All-Star big man drilled back-to-back 3-pointers and added two free throws to turn the deficit into a lead the Knicks would not relinquish. New York closed the half on a surge to take a 78–68 advantage into the break.
The Heat clawed back, cutting the Knicks’ lead to 104–102 in the third quarter. But New York steadied itself, pushing back ahead 110–104 entering the fourth.
When Jaime Jaquez Jr. opened the final period with a layup, the Knicks answered decisively. A 10–0 run—sparked by Shamet’s shooting and steady ball movement—reestablished control. Shamet’s 3-pointer with 6:55 remaining stretched the lead to 125–110, the Knicks’ largest of the night. Miami never got closer than eight the rest of the way.
Hart logs triple-double; supporting cast steps up. Josh Hart delivered his usual all-around excellence, finishing with a 12-point, 12-rebound, 10-assist triple-double—his first of the season.
Jordan Clarkson added 25 points, Mikal Bridges scored 15, and the Knicks’ depth compensated for the absence of Brunson and Anunoby.
New York’s 140 points marked a season high. Heat keep pace behind Powell’s season-best performance. Miami’s offense was potent as well, led by Norman Powell’s season-high 38 points.
Jaquez added 23, while Andrew Wiggins and Kel’el Ware each scored 15. Pelle Larsson (14) and Davion Mitchell (11) rounded out a balanced scoring attack.
The Heat started fast, scoring the first seven points of the game and leading 35–32 after the first quarter, but they were unable to slow the Knicks once Towns and Shamet got rolling.
The teams won’t have to wait long for Round 2. New York and Miami meet again Monday night in Miami in another critical NBA Cup Group C matchup.
