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Knicks Thump Nets to Halt Slide as Locker-Room Tension, Towns Talks Linger

A record-margin win offers brief relief with questions over roles, accountability, trade options pressing before the Feb. 5 deadline.

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NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JANUARY 17: Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the New York Knicks warms up prior to the game against the Phoenix Suns at Madison Square Garden on January 17, 2026 in New York City. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Evan Bernstein/Getty Images)
Jan 21, 2026; New York, New York, USA; New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) looks to drive past Brooklyn Nets forward Noah Clowney (21) and guard Egor Demin (8) in the first quarter at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images

Overview

  • New York crushed Brooklyn 120-66 to end a four-game skid, the biggest margin of victory in franchise history.
  • The Knicks sit 25-18 after losing nine of 11, drawing boos at Madison Square Garden as Jalen Brunson said, “I’d be booing us, too.”
  • Brunson called a players-only meeting urging teammates to find answers internally, with reports noting incomplete buy-in to Mike Brown’s rotations and roles.
  • Newsday reports the team has held exploratory discussions about Karl-Anthony Towns with multiple clubs, including the Grizzlies, Magic and Hornets.
  • With the trade deadline nearing and second‑apron constraints limiting room to maneuver, scrutiny of coaching fit and roster direction remains intense under high expectations.