Jalen Brunson and the Knicks face off against the Raptors in Toronto on Monday.
Here are four things to know before watching the Knicks and Raptors play in the only game on Monday night.
1. New York finding its form. Although the New York Knicks lost to the Detroit Pistons in their most recent outing, the Knicks have won nine of their last 12 games. With Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns leading the way, the Knicks are posting the best offensive rating in the NBA this season.
2. Toronto’s rebuild continues. The Raptors are rebuilding with a core around Scottie Barnes, R.J. Barrett and Gradey Dick. Barrett and Dick are having breakout seasons with Barrett having a career season averaging 23.3 points, 6.6 rebounds and 5.9 assists.
3. Scottie Barnes’ sensational stretch. Barnes took down Rookie of the Year in 2022, but he’s playing the best basketball of his career right now. The versatile forward is being asked to be the primary playmaker for this rebuilding team, averaging 22.3 points, 9.0 rebounds, 7.5 assists, and 1.4 steals since the opener.
4. Knicks’ dominance over Toronto. These teams played four times last season, with the Knicks sweeping the season series — winning by an average of 22.3 points per game. They also won the two most recent matchups by a combined 70 points.
