The New York Knicks defeated the Indiana Pacers by a final score of 130-121 on Wednesday night to take a commanding 2-0 series lead in the Eastern Conference Semifinals. Knicks star Jalen Brunson suffered an injury scare and exited in the first-half with a foot issue. He ultimately returned in the second-half, though.
Brunson was asked if there was any doubt about his return after the win, via NBA on TNT.
“I'm just happy I did (return) to be honest with you,” Brunson said. “We found a way, that's it.”
Brunson was also asked about his collision Andrew Nembhard during his postgame press conference, and he made a brutally honest admission, quote via ClutchPoints.
“He hit me … In the place where it's not really comfortable,” Brunson said. “That didn't feel too great.”
The Knicks trailed at the half. New York never lost hope, though. They fought hard and ultimately took the lead in the second-half. Brunson finished the game with 29 points, five assists, and three steals to lead the way.
He discussed New York's motivation and willingness to fight for wins as well.
“I mean, we just find ways,” Brunson said. “I think for us it just starts with our habits. We've talked about doing the little things since day one. The little things matter. You never know when they're going to help you in the big game… It's all about doing the little things every single day. I think we pride ourselves on that.”
So is Brunson ready for Indiana after suffering the injury scare on Wednesday?
“I'm going to try to be.”
The Knicks took care of business at home. They hold a 2-0 lead, but the Pacers will present a difficult matchup in Indiana. This series is far from over.
Jalen Brunson not intimidated by playoff challenge
Brunson performed well during the regular season. He was not an MVP finalist, but still received consideration for the award.
Some stars cannot handle the bright lights of the NBA playoffs. Brunson, however, steps up and plays even better in the big moments.
Through eight games in the 2024 postseason, the Knicks star is averaging 35.6 points per game on 45.7 percent field goal shooting. He is also recording 8.1 assists and 4.4 rebounds per outing.
Brunson managed to have a great game on Wednesday despite missing time due to the aforementioned injury. He is determined and unwilling to let anything stop him.
Of course, Brunson had some help in Game 2. OG Anunoby and Donte DiVincenzo both scored 28 points. Josh Hart added 19 points, 15 rebounds, and seven assists. Isaiah Hartenstein scored 14 points to go along with 12 rebounds and eight assists.
The Knicks' 2024 playoff outlook was uncertain given Julius Randle's injury. New York certainly misses Randle, but they are still finding ways to win. Jalen Brunson continues to lead while the rest of the roster produces at a respectable level.
The Knicks still have work to do in this series. Again, the Pacers are not going to go down without a fight. Game 3 is going to be a must-win affair for Indiana, however.
New York is currently in the driver's seat. Of course, they will closely monitor Brunson's injury. He will be able to rest on Thursday before Game 3 on Friday night.
We will continue to monitor and provide updates on Brunson's status as they are made available.
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