Mikal Bridges sends Knicks to overtime win with last-second 3-point basket

Mikal Bridges made waves before the game started, as he said that the Knicks’ starters could use some extra rest. But that paled in comparison to his 3-point basket in overtime as time expired, leading the Knicks to a 114-113 victory over the Blazers in Portland Wednesday night. The win evened the Knicks’ record at 2-2 on this five-game road trip and upped their record to 42-23 overall.

Bridges hit a jumper to give the Knicks a 111-110 with 2:50 remaining in overtime. He missed a shot that would have given the Knicks a three-point lead. But he was part of a good defensive effort throughout the game.

Bridges usually inbounds the ball but with Jalen Brunson out, Bridges was running the halfcourt offense and the Knicks had Miles McBride inbounds. But McBride didn’t make strong passes and on the final possession, Bridges was back to his customary spot inbounding the ball. He passed to Josh Hart who handed the ball back to Bridges, who nailed the game-winning three.

It was a very physical game and both teams got off to lousy nights shooting. Portland kept in the game by pounding the offensive glass and points from behind the arc. The Knicks stayed in the game by forcing turnovers and scoring in the paint. The Knicks held a 31-16 edge in points off turnovers and a 58-44 advantage in the paint.

So often this year, the Knicks have gotten in trouble with teams using screens, forcing Towns to come up from drop coverage. In this game, the Knicks used the same tactic, screening with Hart, who was being covered by the Blazers’ center. And the Knicks were able to get shots off before Donovan Clingan could recover.

Bridges led all players with 33 points and he added four rebounds and four assists. OG Anunoby scored 23, and knocked down three shots from behind the arc. Towns had 21, including back-to-back 3-pointers in overtime. Hart just missed a triple-double, as he finished with 11 points, 11 rebounds and 9 assists.

The Knicks finish their West Coast swing with a game against the Warriors, who saddled the Knicks with a loss in Madison Square Garden two weeks ago. New York will seek revenge Saturday night in a prime time game on ABC.