Jalen Brunson made a triumphant return from a foot injury, scoring 29 points to lead the New York Knicks to a 130-121 victory against the Indiana Pacers. The win gives the Knicks a 2-0 lead in the Eastern Conference semifinals. Brunson’s performance in the second half was particularly impressive, as he scored 24 of his 29 points during that time.
The atmosphere at Madison Square Garden was reminiscent of Willis Reed’s legendary return in the 1970 NBA Finals. Brunson’s comeback in the second half energized the crowd after the Pacers had taken a double-digit lead. While he didn’t reach 40 points for the fifth consecutive playoff game, Brunson’s contributions were essential in securing the win for the Knicks.
OG Anunoby also had a standout performance with a career playoff-high 28 points. However, Anunoby had to leave the game in the third quarter due to a hamstring injury. Despite being plagued by injuries throughout the season, the Knicks have continued to find ways to win with the help of Brunson and his Villanova teammates Donte DiVincenzo and Josh Hart.
The Pacers, led by Tyrese Haliburton’s 34 points, put up a strong fight in Game 2. However, head coach Rick Carlisle’s ejection late in the game disrupted their rhythm. The series now shifts to Indiana for Game 3 and Game 4, with the Knicks looking to maintain their momentum and secure a spot in the Eastern Conference finals for the first time in over two decades.