In a thrilling comeback, Jalen Brunson returned from a right foot injury to spearhead the New York Knicks to a 130-121 victory over the Indiana Pacers, securing a commanding 2-0 lead in the Eastern Conference semifinals.
Brunson, sidelined for the entire second quarter, erupted for 24 of his 29 points in the second half, igniting Madison Square Garden and propelling the Knicks to within striking distance of their first Eastern Conference finals appearance since 2000.
OG Anunoby contributed a career playoff-high 28 points before exiting in the third quarter due to a left hamstring injury, further complicating the Knicks’ injury woes, which have already claimed three key players for the season.
Alongside Brunson, former Villanova teammates Donte DiVincenzo and Josh Hart delivered stellar performances, with DiVincenzo tallying 28 points and Hart recording 19 points, 15 rebounds, and seven assists.
Despite a valiant effort from Pacers’ Tyrese Haliburton, who notched 34 points, nine assists, and six rebounds, Indiana faced adversity as head coach Rick Carlisle was ejected from the game after receiving two technical fouls.
The series now shifts to Indiana for Game 3 on Friday and Game 4 on Sunday, with the Pacers aiming to mount a comeback against the Knicks’ resilient lineup.
Former Knicks forward Obi Toppin provided a boost off the bench for the Pacers with 20 points, but Indiana faltered at the free-throw line, shooting just 59%.
The Knicks’ faithful jeered Pacers legend Reggie Miller, who was broadcasting the game, during a tense first half marked by Brunson’s absence, before erupting in cheers as he returned to action in the second half.
Brunson’s impact was palpable as he spearheaded a 14-0 run that propelled the Knicks to a crucial lead, showcasing his importance to the team’s playoff aspirations.
With key players sidelined due to injury, including All-Star Julius Randle, the Knicks leaned heavily on their starters, with Hart logging all 48 minutes in both games of the series.
Brunson’s return provided a significant boost to the Knicks’ playoff campaign, as they aim to overcome adversity and advance to the Eastern Conference finals.
In a poignant tribute to Knicks legend Willis Reed, whose iconic return during the 1970 NBA Finals remains etched in Madison Square Garden history, the team honored Reed’s legacy during the first quarter, underscoring the enduring impact of his heroic performance.
