Landry Shamet delivered a season-best performance with 29 points as the New York Knicks topped the Brooklyn Nets 113-105 on Sunday night, closing out the regular season with momentum ahead of the NBA Playoffs.
Shamet Shines in Spot Start, Knicks Rest Key Players
Shamet took on starter's minutes after replacing Mikal Bridges just six seconds into the game. Bridges, who extended his incredible ironman streak to 556 consecutive games, checked out immediately after committing a foul. He has never missed a game in his college or NBA career.
With the No. 3 seed in the Eastern Conference already secured, the Knicks opted to rest stars Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns, Josh Hart, and OG Anunoby. Despite the lineup changes, New York controlled the game behind strong showings from Cam Payne (21 points) and Precious Achiuwa (18 points), securing their 10th straight win over the Nets and finishing the season
at 51-31.
Brooklyn Nets End Season Short-Handed
The Brooklyn Nets (26-56) concluded their season with most of their top players already sidelined. Tyrese Martin and Trendon Watford each scored 20 points in a game that highlighted the Nets' depth players.
Bridges’ brief appearance was symbolic, echoing a similar moment in 2023 when he started and exited quickly to preserve his games-played streak.
Knicks Enter Playoffs Riding Momentum
Head coach Tom Thibodeau prioritized rest and health over rhythm after New York had dropped three straight earlier in the week. The team will now turn its attention to the opening round of the NBA Playoffs, where they’ll face the No. 6 seed, the Detroit Pistons. Game 1 is expected to be played next weekend, either Saturday or Sunday.
With Sunday’s win, the Knicks now lead the all-time series against the Nets 111-107, after sweeping all matchups in the 2024–25 season.
What’s Next
- Knicks: Begin first-round playoff series vs. Detroit Pistons next weekend.
- Nets: Shift focus to the 2025 NBA Draft Lottery as they look to rebuild for next season.
