A thrust in the third from Jalen Brunson served as the spark to a New York Knicks comeback against the New Orleans Pelicans.

This is why you call him "captain." Because when you call on the captain, he delivers. And this is why you don’t count the Knicks out after three quarters — or even after four. Because all their high-powered offense needs is a moment to blow a game open.

The Knicks didn’t need their best to beat the Pelicans, but they needed Jalen Brunson to strap on his cape.  The Knicks started slowly Saturday against an overmatched opponent, trailing for much of the contest with Karl-Anthony Towns in foul trouble and a disjointed offense.