Knicks stay perfect at home, overpower Timberwolves in Randle’s MSG return

Senior Editor
Knicks stay perfect at home, overpower Timberwolves in Randle’s MSG return image

The New York Knicks entered Wednesday night’s matchup with plenty of storylines surrounding Madison Square Garden. Not only were they hosting the Minnesota Timberwolves on the night of Anthony Edwards’ return from a hamstring injury, but the game also marked a homecoming for former Knicks Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo. In addition, Karl-Anthony Towns faced his former team for the first time since being traded in the three-player deal that reshaped both rosters in 2024.

The first half was tightly contested, with Minnesota holding a four-point lead at the break. But the Knicks completely flipped the momentum after halftime, unleashing an offensive surge that the Timberwolves could not answer. New York scored 83 points in the second half and finished with 137 points on 53% shooting from the field.

A major factor in the Knicks’ dominance was their overwhelming rebounding advantage. New York outrebounded Minnesota 50–31, thanks in large part to the decision to start Mitchell Robinson alongside Towns. Both big men grabbed 10 rebounds and helped limit the Timberwolves to one shot on most possessions.

The Knicks outscored Minnesota by 12 in the third quarter and 15 in the fourth as their offense continued to roll. Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby each scored more than 20 points, while Miles McBride and Josh Hart combined for 32 points off the bench.

Edwards struggled in his first game back, finishing with 15 points on 5-for-13 shooting. The Knicks also spoiled Randle’s 32-point return to MSG, keeping control from the final minutes of the third quarter onward.

With the victory, New York improved to a perfect 5–0 at home. The Knicks will now have three days off before hosting the Brooklyn Nets on Sunday in an early-season rivalry matchup.

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Senior Editor