Photos: Phoenix Suns at New York Knicks, Jan. 2, 2023 – The Arizona Republic

The Phoenix Suns demonstrated unwavering tenacity during their clash with the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden, where every possession felt like a pivotal moment. Despite trailing at halftime, the Suns rallied with strategic plays led by Devin Booker and Kevin Durant, whose sharpshooting kept the scoreboard ticking against a hostile crowd. The team’s resilience was evident in their defensive adjustments and seamless ball movement under pressure, ultimately forcing multiple Knicks turnovers late in the game.

• Kevin Durant: 32 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists
• Devin Booker: 27 points, 6 assists
• Chris Paul: Controlled tempo with clutch free throws

The Suns’ ability to stay composed in Madison Square Garden’s electric atmosphere was exemplified by a crucial fourth-quarter run that turned a narrow deficit into a lead. Their balanced scoring attack and disciplined defense frustrated the Knicks, who struggled to capitalize despite multiple attempts. The energy on the floor highlighted why Phoenix remains a top contender in the Western Conference, showcasing not only skill but heart in one of the season’s most gripping encounters.

The intensity of the clash between the Phoenix Suns and the New York Knicks on January 2, 2023, was defined by several pivotal plays that turned the momentum at crucial junctures. Devin Booker stood out with a barrage of clutch three-pointers in the third quarter, sparking a crucial Suns run that kept them within striking distance. Meanwhile, Julius Randle dominated the paint for New York, pulling down critical rebounds and converting high-pressure free throws in the closing minutes. The game’s rhythm shifted notably after a fiery sequence where the Suns’ defense forced back-to-back turnovers, setting up transition baskets that ultimately heightened the stakes.

• Booker’s scoring spree: 14 points in the third quarter, including three triples.
• Randle’s hustle: 12 rebounds and key free throws down the stretch.
• Clay Thompson’s late surge: Added valuable spacing with timely perimeter shooting.
• Defensive highlights: Suns’ switch defense disrupting Knicks’ offensive sets.

Beyond the statistical highlights, there was an intangible energy fueled by Phoenix’s resilient bench, particularly the contributions of Cam Johnson, who provided a burst of offensive energy and defensive tenacity during key substitutions. The Knicks responded with the steady playmaking of Immanuel Quickley, who maintained the offensive flow and kept pressure on the Suns’ perimeter defense. These moments underscored the dynamic interplay between veteran leadership and youthful exuberance that made this game a thrilling contest from tip-off to the final buzzer.

The Knicks implemented a compact defensive scheme designed specifically to disrupt Phoenix’s fluid ball movement and perimeter shooting. Key to their approach was the emphasis on switching aggressively on screens, which minimized open looks for the Suns’ sharpshooters like Devin Booker and Mikal Bridges. New York’s defenders maintained high activity around the three-point line, forcing Phoenix to rely more heavily on mid-range shots rather than their preferred deep attempts.

Critical elements of the Knicks’ defense included:

• Double-teaming the Suns’ primary ball handlers early in the shot clock
• Rotations prioritizing help defense to contest drives and cuts
• Physical post coverage to limit offensive rebounds and second-chance points

To continue their momentum following the intense face-off in New York, the Suns must leverage their dynamic backcourt synergy more aggressively. Devin Booker’s sharp shooting combined with Chris Paul’s court vision has repeatedly dismantled opposing defenses, and capitalizing on this duo’s strengths can maintain offensive fluidity. Emphasizing quick ball movement and creating open shots through effective pick-and-roll plays will further stress opponents and maximize scoring opportunities.

Defensively, the Suns showed flashes of resilience but need to tighten perimeter coverage to thwart sharpshooters on rival teams. Implementing a more switch-heavy scheme can neutralize mismatches, while encouraging active hands and quick rotations will disrupt passing lanes. Additionally, leaning into their strong rebounding presence under the boards will be key to controlling possession and setting the pace in the final quarters.

• Exploit pick-and-roll plays to generate open shots for Booker and Bridges
• Enhance switch-defense tactics to contain opposing shooters
• Dominate rebounds to fuel fast breaks and limit second-chance points