Knicks end Spurs' streak with 'high-level' defense

Key Highlights

• In the past month, the Knicks have been fifth in defensive rating (107 points per 100 possessions). The Spurs shot 50% and nearly 38% from 3-point range in February, their best offensive month of the season -- and the Knicks simply smothered them at Madison Square Garden, holding them to just 26.5% from 3. Victor Wembanyama had 42 points and 18 rebounds in his first visit to Madison Square Garden last Christmas Day, but was held to 25 points and 13 rebounds Sunday.
• He committed seven of the Spurs' 22 turnovers. Brown said the Knicks weren't going to change much of what they've been doing defensively just for Wembanyama, and they stayed out of foul trouble for most of the day."Obviously, he's an extremely talented individual, but you know, for us, we have to continue to make strides defensively," Knicks forward Josh Hart said.
• "I know offense is good, and we're going to keep getting better, and we have talented guys [on defense].
• We have to make sure we bring that and hang our hat on that."Mikal Bridges was engaged on both ends and had one of his best all-around games this season.
• Bridges had 25 points, including five 3-pointers, and added five rebounds and five steals -- many of them leading to transition baskets. It was his highest-scoring output since a 30-point outing Jan.