MEMPHIS — The Knicks have the worst bench scoring in the NBA and Grizzlies have the best.
But in Friday night’s 114-113 New York victory at FedEx Forum, Tom Thibodeau’s reserves actually won the points battle, and that was in large part due to an efficient night from Miles McBride.
The guard dropped 17 points on 7-for-11 shooting from the field, including a spectacular jam over Memphis’ Santi Aldama.
It was the highlight of the evening, and McBride knew the attempt was happening after he beat Luke Kennard off the dribble.
“I figured if I beat him, I was going to dunk it,” McBride said.
McBride is averaging career highs in points, rebounds, assists and minutes while enjoying his best stretch of good health in February.
He had knee and hamstring issues earlier in the campaign.
“Obviously you have to be on the court to showcase what you have. So I feel like I was being held back a little bit through those injuries. Just tough timing. And then finding my rhythm on the court, ways I can contribute,” McBride said. “It’s not always about scoring. It’s about making plays. So as long as I can showcase my abilities, I have a great chance of doing that.”
Josh Hart and Karl-Anthony Towns both started Friday night — and, coincidentally, both landed in foul trouble — after being listed as questionable with knee injuries.
Towns missed the previous game with patellar tendinopathy, a recurring issue for the center.
Hart also missed multiple games recently with pain in his right knee.
Hart’s latest diagnosis was “knee effusion,” which is fluid accumulation in the knee joint.
Jalen Brunson picked a personal beef with Memphis coach Taylor Jenkins, who apparently yelled something at or about Brunson early in the first quarter.
In reaction, Brunson stared down Jenkins on several possessions and jawed at the coach throughout the opening half.
The point guard declined to address what happened in his postgame interview.
Ariel Hukporti underwent surgery to “address” a meniscus tear, the Knicks announced Friday while making official the 4-to-6 week recovery timeline.
The rookie, who was drafted 58th overall, suffered the injury Wednesday in the first start of his career.
“It’s unfortunate to see that,” Brunson said. “Obviously we’re going to pray for a speedy recovery, just make sure his mental is right, his mentality is right. I’ve been saying this all year, I’m really proud of him with what he’s been able to do in a short time. Can’t wait to have him back as soon as possible.”