Jose Alvarado has quietly had a masterful start to life at the New York Knicks, but his comeback against the Houston Rockets thrust him firmly into the spotlight. In just 20 fourth-quarter minutes, the former New Orleans Pelicans man produced eight points, five steals, four assists and a game-best +18 plus-minus, along with a steal on Kevin Durant that resulted in Madison Square Garden booing loudly.
After the game, Alvarado revealed that he and KD were 'totally in love' despite the trash talk that happened between them during the game.
Jose Alvarado says there is "total love" between him and Kevin Durant:
"It's a big brother. He showed a lot of love when I first came into the league. He loves me competing and obviously, he's a KD. There's just love, love." pic.twitter.com/EXOCpZZ4kh
- Knicks Video (@sny_knicks) 22 February 2026
"It's the big brother. He showed a lot of love when I first came into the league. He loves how I compete and obviously, he's KD. There's just love," he said, according to a clip by Knicks Videos on X.
The Knicks trailed by nearly 16 points when Alvarado entered the game, and his defensive intensity and IQ were immediately on full display. The Knicks outscored Houston 33-15 in the fourth quarter, and much of that swing came from direct ball pressure from Alvarado.
In his five appearances so far, Alvarado has averaged approximately 13.3 points, 4.3 assists and 3.7 steals, while shooting over 55% overall and 37.5% from deep. Alvarado's obvious impact was also praised by Karl-Anthony Towns, who himself had a big night against Houston.
"They made him feel loved and feel welcomed. I think he reciprocated that energy with his tenacity on the court. Hats off to our fans who welcomed him and gave him the confidence, belief and love to do what he does best," Catt said, also crediting Knicks supporters for welcoming the point guard.
Karl-Anthony Towns talks about the spark Jose Alvarado gave the Knicks and credits Knicks fans for welcoming him:
"They made him feel loved and welcomed. I think he repaid that energy with his tenacity on the court. Hats off to our fans who welcomed him... pic.twitter.com/biafemEB0E
- Knicks Video (@sny_knicks) 22 February 2026
Regardless, the Knicks as a unit responded with one of their most resilient performances in recent memory, and fans will hope they continue in the same manner as they attempt to compete at the top of the Eastern Conference.
