Knicks Overcome Injuries to Defeat Magic in NBA Cup Quarterfinals

Brunson, Hart, and Anunoby lead New York to 106-100 victory despite missing star center Karl-Anthony Towns

Apr. 12, 2026 at 2:38pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a basketball game, with the players and court rendered in sharp, overlapping geometric shapes and planes, capturing the dynamic energy and movement of the sport.The Knicks' resilient victory over the Magic showcases the team's depth and strategic adaptability in the face of key injuries.NYC Today

The New York Knicks defeated the Orlando Magic 106-100 in the NBA Cup quarterfinals on Sunday, led by strong performances from Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, and OG Anunoby. The Knicks were able to win despite missing star center Karl-Anthony Towns due to a left calf injury. The Magic also faced adversity when forward Franz Wagner exited the game in the first quarter with a lower left leg injury. The Knicks took control of the game with a 13-0 run in the third quarter, and held off a late Magic comeback attempt in the fourth quarter.

Why it matters

This win showcases the Knicks' depth and resilience, as they were able to defeat a tough Magic team without one of their best players. It also raises questions about the status of injured players on both teams heading into the next round of the NBA Cup playoffs.

The details

Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 30 points and 9 assists, while Josh Hart added 17 points and 12 rebounds. OG Anunoby chipped in 21 points and 7 rebounds, and Mikal Bridges had 12 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists. The Knicks' 13-0 run in the third quarter proved to be the difference, as they were able to extend their lead and hold on for the victory.

  • The game was played on Sunday, April 12, 2026.
  • The Knicks' 13-0 run occurred in the third quarter.

The players

Jalen Brunson

The Knicks' starting point guard, who led the team with 30 points and 9 assists.

Josh Hart

The Knicks' starting shooting guard, who contributed 17 points and 12 rebounds.

OG Anunoby

The Knicks' starting small forward, who added 21 points and 7 rebounds.

Mikal Bridges

The Knicks' starting power forward, who had 12 points, 7 rebounds, and 6 assists.

Karl-Anthony Towns

The Knicks' star center, who missed the game due to a left calf injury.

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What they’re saying

“We knew it was going to be a tough game without KAT, but the guys really stepped up and played their hearts out. I'm proud of the effort and resilience they showed.”

— Tom Thibodeau, Knicks Head Coach

“Losing Franz was a big blow, but we have to find a way to overcome adversity. The Knicks played a great game and deserved the win. We'll regroup and come back stronger in the next round.”

— Jamahl Mosley, Magic Head Coach

What’s next

The Knicks will visit the Toronto Raptors on Tuesday, April 14th, while the Magic will host the Miami Heat on the same day. The status of injured players like Franz Wagner will be a key storyline heading into the next round of the NBA Cup playoffs.

The takeaway

This game showcased the depth and resilience of the Knicks, who were able to overcome the absence of their star center to defeat a tough Magic team. It also highlighted the importance of player health and depth as teams navigate the NBA Cup playoffs. Both the Knicks and Magic will need to regroup and prepare for their upcoming matchups as they look to advance further in the postseason.