OG Anunoby scored 34 points to lead the New York Knicks to a dominant 142-103 victory over the Denver Nuggets on Friday night. The win marked the start of a five-game road trip for New York, and it came in emphatic fashion as the starters rested the entire fourth quarter.
Nuggets Suffer Historic Loss
Denver’s 39-point defeat tied a franchise record for largest home loss, last set in 1998 against Chicago. Nikola Jokic poured in 38 points, but the Nuggets endured their biggest setback of the season both on the scoreboard and with Jamal Murray’s injury.
Murray Exits With Sprained Ankle
Murray, fresh off 45- and 28-point performances earlier in the week, had 12 points before leaving late in the first half. He sprained his left ankle after stepping back on Jokic’s foot while defending Anunoby. Helped off the floor by Jonas Valanciunas, Murray did not return, leaving Denver’s long-awaited full starting lineup short-lived.
Knicks Control From Start
Karl-Anthony Towns added 19 points and 17 rebounds, while Josh Hart scored 18. New York built a 65-42 halftime lead after coach Mike Brown successfully challenged a charge call on Anunoby, turning it into a blocking foul on Murray. Anunoby sank both free throws, and the Knicks never looked back.
Nuggets’ Shooting Struggles
Aaron Gordon returned from a hamstring injury but managed just one basket in 21 minutes. Denver missed 17 straight three-pointers during a brutal stretch, only breaking the drought when Jokic connected with his team already trailing by 22.
What’s Next
The Knicks continue their trip against the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday, while the Nuggets head to Oklahoma City on Monday night.
This game was more than a rout—it was a statement. Anunoby’s scoring and the Knicks’ depth overwhelmed Denver, while Murray’s injury cast a shadow over the Nuggets’ playoff push.
