Knicks Stage Epic 18-Point 4th Quarter Comeback to Stun Rockets

New York rallies from huge deficit to win thriller in Houston

Apr. 13, 2026 at 6:18am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game, with overlapping shapes and planes representing the players, the court, and the action on the floor. The image captures the energy and intensity of the game without any specific identifiable elements.The Knicks' dramatic comeback victory over the Rockets showcases the team's resilience and depth, while also exposing potential flaws in Houston's late-game composure.Chicago Today

The New York Knicks overcame an 18-point fourth quarter deficit to stun the Houston Rockets 108-106 in a thrilling NBA matchup. Led by strong performances from Karl-Anthony Towns, Jalen Brunson, and OG Anunoby, the Knicks clawed their way back into the game with a relentless pace and crisp execution, capping off the comeback with a late go-ahead jumper from Brunson.

Why it matters

This dramatic victory could redefine the Knicks' ceiling, showcasing their resilience and ability to overcome adversity. However, it also raises questions about the Rockets' late-game composure, as they were unable to hold onto a sizeable lead in the final minutes.

The details

The Knicks trailed by 13 at halftime but slowly chipped away at the deficit in the fourth quarter. An 8-1 run early in the period cut the lead to single digits, and a 14-2 surge later on tied the game at 103 with 1:26 remaining. Brunson's go-ahead jumper in the final minute proved to be the game-winner, as Kevin Durant's last-second 40-footer fell short.

  • The Knicks trailed by 13 at halftime.
  • New York went on an 8-1 run early in the fourth quarter to cut the lead to single digits.
  • The Knicks then used a 14-2 surge to tie the game at 103 with 1:26 left.
  • Jalen Brunson hit the go-ahead jumper in the final minute to put the Knicks ahead for good.
  • Kevin Durant's 40-footer at the buzzer fell short, sealing the Knicks' comeback victory.

The players

Karl-Anthony Towns

The Knicks' star forward scored a game-high 25 points to lead the comeback effort.

Jalen Brunson

The Knicks' point guard poured in 20 points, including the go-ahead jumper in the final minute.

OG Anunoby

The Knicks' versatile forward added 20 points to the winning effort.

Kevin Durant

The Rockets' superstar scored a team-high 30 points but was unable to hit the game-winning shot at the buzzer.

Jabari Smith Jr.

The Rockets' young forward contributed 21 points in the losing effort.

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What they’re saying

“We never gave up, even when we were down big. That's the kind of grit and determination this team has shown all season.”

— Jalen Brunson, Knicks Point Guard

“We had control of the game and let it slip away. That's something we need to learn from and improve on going forward.”

— Kevin Durant

What’s next

The Rockets will look to bounce back when they visit the Utah Jazz on Monday night, while the Knicks will travel to Chicago to take on the Bulls on Sunday.

The takeaway

This thrilling comeback victory showcases the Knicks' resilience and depth, potentially redefining their ceiling as a team. However, it also raises questions about the Rockets' ability to maintain composure and close out games, an area they'll need to address as they continue their pursuit of a playoff spot.