The Los Angeles Lakers and New York Knicks are locked in a tight NBA regular-season game at Madison Square Garden on February 1, 2026. With the Knicks holding a slim lead entering the second quarter, key players like Jalen Brunson and Luka Dončić are on the court despite injury concerns. Both teams enter with strong records, the Knicks at 30-18 and the Lakers at 29-18.
The game tipped off at 7:00 p.m. ET, with the Knicks starting strong, leading 6-2 early in the first quarter. By the end of the period, the Lakers had rallied to a 33-27 advantage, but the Knicks responded in the second quarter, taking a 45-44 lead with 4:39 remaining, according to live updates.
New York Knicks starting lineup: Jalen Brunson (PG), Josh Hart (SG), Mikal Bridges (SF), OG Anunoby (PF), Karl-Anthony Towns (C). The Knicks, first in the Atlantic Division and second in the Eastern Conference, are on a five-game winning streak after a 127-97 victory over the Blazers. Brunson is expected to play despite managing a right ankle issue.
Los Angeles Lakers starting lineup: Luka Dončić (PG), Marcus Smart (SG), Rui Hachimura (SF), LeBron James (PF), Deandre Ayton (C). The Lakers have been inconsistent, posting a 5-5 record in their last 10 games. Dončić and James are available, with James set to play without restrictions. However, Austin Reaves is out with a grade two right calf strain, missing his 19th straight game since December 25; he was a game-time decision but ruled out after warmups. Other Lakers absences include Bronny James (leg) and Adou Thiero (knee).
Knicks injuries: Miles McBride out (ankle), Kevin McCullough Jr. questionable (calf). Betting projections from Dimers give the Knicks a 62% chance of victory, predicting a 115-112 final score. The matchup highlights star power, with Dončić projected for 33 points and Brunson for 29.
Fans can watch via NBA League Pass, with VAVEL providing live minute-by-minute coverage.
