The Washington Wizards secured a thrilling 111-109 preseason victory over the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden on October 8, 2026. Washington produced a strong fourth-quarter finish to overcome New York, turning a closely contested matchup into an impressive road win.
The Wizards vs Knicks game featured contrasting strengths, with the Knicks creating more scoring opportunities through ball movement while Washington capitalized on three-point shooting and late free throws. Despite leading for much of the contest, the New York Knicks could not maintain their advantage in the closing minutes.
Wizards vs Knicks: Washington Wins 111-109
The Washington Wizards started well, edging the opening quarter 30-29 before the Knicks responded with a 34-point second quarter. New York carried a 63-57 advantage into halftime and maintained its lead throughout the third quarter, entering the final period ahead 84-81.
However, the Wizards changed the momentum in the fourth quarter. Washington scored 30 points against New York’s 25, using aggressive defense, accurate shooting and crucial trips to the free-throw line to complete the comeback.
The Knicks committed eight fouls in the final quarter compared with just one by Washington. That difference helped the Wizards attempt 13 free throws in the period, while New York attempted only two. Washington converted nine of its 13 attempts, giving the visitors the edge in a game decided by just two points.
Kyshawn George Leads a Balanced Wizards Performance
Kyshawn George delivered an all-around performance for Washington, recording 12 points, seven rebounds and five assists. His contribution across multiple areas helped the Wizards remain competitive while several teammates made important scoring contributions.
Anthony Davis led Washington with 16 points, seven rebounds and one block, shooting six of 11 from the field. He also connected on two of his three three-point attempts.
Trae Young added 15 points, four assists and two steals, providing another important offensive presence. AJ Dybantsa contributed 11 points and four steals, helping Washington generate defensive pressure during key stretches.
The Wizards also benefited from an effective bench performance. Justin Champagnie scored 12 points on 60% shooting, recorded two blocks and finished with a team-best plus-nine rating. His efficiency and defensive activity made him one of Washington’s most valuable contributors.
Tre Mann recorded six points, five rebounds and four assists while posting a game-high plus-12 rating. Bub Carrington added 11 points, while Deandre Ayton collected 10 rebounds in just over 17 minutes of action.
New York Knicks Struggle From Three-Point Range
The New York Knicks showed promising stretches of offensive basketball but struggled to convert enough perimeter shots to secure the victory.
New York finished with 40 made field goals on 95 attempts, shooting 42% overall. The team connected on just 11 of 38 three-point attempts, a 28% success rate. Washington, meanwhile, made 13 of 33 attempts from beyond the arc, shooting 39%.
Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 13 points and three assists. Josh Hart also scored 13 points, adding six rebounds and three assists, while Landry Shamet contributed another 13 points and knocked down three of four three-point attempts.
OG Anunoby finished with 10 points, five rebounds and one block. Karl-Anthony Towns recorded eight points and seven rebounds, while Andre Drummond added eight points, nine rebounds and four assists.
Mikal Bridges had a quieter outing, scoring two points on one-of-six shooting. Although the Knicks recorded 28 assists compared with Washington’s 22, their perimeter shooting and late-game foul trouble ultimately proved costly.
Rebounding and Turnovers Shape the Contest
The Wizards won the rebounding battle 53-47, including a 38-30 advantage on the defensive glass. Washington’s ability to secure defensive rebounds limited some of New York’s second-chance opportunities.
The Knicks still collected 17 offensive rebounds, compared with Washington’s 15, and attempted nine more field goals than their opponents. However, Washington’s superior shooting efficiency helped offset the difference in shot volume.
Turnovers were another important factor. The Wizards committed 22 turnovers compared with 15 for New York, giving the Knicks an opportunity to control the game for long stretches. Washington responded with defensive pressure late, recording four steals in the fourth quarter as New York committed six turnovers in the period.
The contrasting statistics highlighted how Washington found a way to win despite losing the turnover battle.
What the Wizards Win Means for Washington
For the Washington Wizards, the 111-109 result provided a useful preseason test of their late-game execution. Contributions from Kyshawn George, Justin Champagnie and the supporting cast demonstrated the value of balanced scoring and defensive activity.
Washington’s 39% three-point shooting and ability to generate free throws in the fourth quarter were particularly important. The team also showed resilience after trailing for much of the second half.
For the Knicks, the loss offered areas to address before the regular season. Their ball movement and offensive rebounding were encouraging, but improving three-point efficiency and avoiding unnecessary fouls will be important in close games.
Knicks vs Wizards: Key Takeaways
- Final score: Washington Wizards 111, New York Knicks 109.
- Top Washington scorer: Anthony Davis with 16 points.
- Kyshawn George: 12 points, seven rebounds and five assists.
- Justin Champagnie: 12 points, two blocks and a plus-nine rating.
- Top Knicks scorers: Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart and Landry Shamet with 13 points each.
- Three-point shooting: Washington made 13 of 33 attempts, while New York converted 11 of 38.
- Fourth-quarter score: Washington 30, New York 25.
Final Thoughts
The Wizards vs Knicks matchup ended with Washington earning a hard-fought 111-109 preseason win at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks controlled the game for extended periods, but the Wizards delivered when the pressure increased in the fourth quarter.
Kyshawn George’s all-around contribution and Justin Champagnie’s efficient scoring helped Washington produce a balanced performance. Meanwhile, New York’s struggles from three-point range and limited trips to the free-throw line late prevented the team from protecting its lead.
Although preseason results do not determine regular-season success, the game provided both teams with valuable lessons as they prepare for the upcoming NBA campaign.
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