Jalen Brunson Struggles Late as Knicks Suffer Defeat to Suns

In an intense matchup, the New York Knicks faced a tough defeat against the Phoenix Suns. The game, held on January 9, 2026, ended with a score of 112-107. Jalen Brunson, who is often referred to as Captain Clutch, struggled in the final moments.

Brunson’s Late Struggles

Brunson’s performance in the fourth quarter was particularly disappointing. He shot only 1-for-6 and committed two crucial turnovers within the last 95 seconds. The Knicks, led by Brunson, had been trying to secure a much-needed road win.

Knicks Team Performance

The Knicks demonstrated a concerning trend throughout the game. They racked up 18 team turnovers, which proved detrimental. This was their fifth loss in the last six games, showcasing ongoing issues on both offense and defense.

Owner’s Presence and Expectations

James Dolan, the Knicks’ owner, attended the game, an unusual move for him. He recently stated that reaching the Finals is essential for the team, raising the stakes for the players. The Knicks are currently 24-14 but have not played up to expectations.

Key Moments in the Game

• The Knicks struggled offensively in the fourth quarter, scoring only two points for nearly four minutes.
• Despite holding a two-point lead with just over four minutes left, they could not maintain momentum.
• Dillon Brooks played a significant role offensively for the Suns, showcasing strong defense that challenged the Knicks.

Suns’ Performance

On the other hand, the Suns took advantage of the Knicks’ errors. Newcomer Dillon Brooks, along with star player Devin Booker, led the Suns to victory. Booker finished with 31 points and eight assists, fueling Phoenix’s success.

Looking Forward

Knicks head coach Mike Brown is aware of the need for change. He recently held a practice to address the team’s weaknesses and adjust their strategies. The goal is to improve their performance moving forward.

As the Knicks prepare for upcoming challenges, they need to address their late-game struggles and maintain consistency throughout the match. The pressure is high, and the team is eager to turn their season around.