Brunson Takes Responsibility as Knicks Drop Third Straight Game

Slow Start for the Defending Champions

The New York Knicks dropped to 0-3 on Sunday after a 111-102 loss to the Orlando Magic at Madison Square Garden. New York blew a 10 point lead with 9:20 left in the fourth quarter and allowed 40 points in the final period.

They are the first defending champions to start a season 0-3 since the Dallas Mavericks in the 2011 to 2012 season. New York started the game with a 12-0 lead, but they led by only four points at halftime. The Knicks have shown brief stretches of solid play against Philadelphia, Boston, and Orlando, but they have failed to sustain it.

Brunson Takes the Blame for Sputtering Offense

Jalen Brunson finished with 28 points, but he shot 12 of 28 from the field and missed six of his seven attempts from three point range. The Knicks entered Sunday ranked 29th in offensive efficiency and shot just 9 for 38 from deep against the Magic.

Brunson took full accountability for the poor execution on offense. "Everything falls on my shoulders," Brunson said after the game. He added that the team is hitting adversity now and needs to see how they respond.

Franz Wagner scored 21 of his 23 points in the fourth quarter for Orlando while adding 13 rebounds and nine assists with teammate Paolo Banchero sidelined. On defense, head coach Mike Brown pulled backup center Andre Drummond after Magic center Wendell Carter Jr. beat him down the floor for a layup. Brown agreed that his team has looked lethargic and lacks sharpness.

What it means for the next game

Detroit Pistons at New York Knicks (NBA, Wed, 28 Oct): New York Knicks win 47%, Detroit Pistons win 53%; projected score New York Knicks 110, Detroit Pistons 110. Our safest pick: Pistons +8.5.

New York Knicks at Chicago Bulls (NBA, Thu, 29 Oct): Chicago Bulls win 29%, New York Knicks win 71%; projected score Chicago Bulls 110, New York Knicks 117. Our safest pick: Bulls +14.5.