The Knicks walked into Sunday night’s showdown with the Raptors riding a hot streak-and they made sure to keep the fire burning. Facing off against a Toronto team that had won nine of its last ten and was neck-and-neck with New York in the Eastern Conference standings, this one looked like a heavyweight bout on paper. But once the ball tipped at Madison Square Garden, it was all Knicks, all night.
New York came out swinging, dropping 41 points in the first quarter while holding the Raptors to just 22. That early burst set the tone, and the Knicks never let their foot off the gas. They outscored Toronto in three of the four quarters and cruised to a commanding 22-point win that felt even more lopsided than the final score suggests.
What stood out wasn’t just the win-it was how the Knicks got it done. This wasn’t a one-man show.
Six players hit double figures, with Karl-Anthony Towns leading the way with 22 points. He was efficient, assertive, and played like the offensive anchor the Knicks envisioned when they brought him in.
But the real spark plug? Josh Hart.
With Landry Shamet and OG Anunoby out, Hart stepped into the starting lineup and delivered one of those all-around performances that coaches dream about. He poured in 20 points, pulled down 12 boards, handed out seven assists, and swiped three steals.
That’s the kind of box score that tells the story of a player who did everything-and did it well.
The Knicks owned the glass all night, outrebounding Toronto 61-40. That kind of dominance on the boards doesn’t just help you win-it sends a message.
This team is physical, disciplined, and playing with a purpose. They’re not just beating teams-they’re breaking their rhythm, dictating the pace, and imposing their will.
And that home-court magic? It’s real.
With Sunday’s win, the Knicks improved to 10-1 at Madison Square Garden-marking their best home start since the 2012-13 season. That year’s squad finished 54-28 and made noise in the playoffs.
It’s early, but the vibes are starting to feel familiar.
Now sitting second in the East, the Knicks are riding a four-game win streak and looking every bit like a team that’s found its identity. Next up: a marquee matchup against the Boston Celtics on Tuesday. If New York can bring the same energy and execution, we could be in for another statement performance from a team that’s starting to look like a serious contender.