The New York Knicks, led by a stellar performance from Jalen Brunson, decisively defeated the Indiana Pacers with a score of 121-91 on Tuesday. This victory in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference semi-finals puts the Knicks just one win away from their first Eastern Conference finals appearance in nearly a quarter-century.
Rebounding from a 32-point loss in Game 4, the Knicks showcased a powerful comeback, with Brunson scoring an impressive 44 points, along with seven assists and four rebounds. Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau praised Brunson’s team spirit, highlighting his willingness to support his teammates as a key aspect of his leadership.
The Knicks dominated the rebounding game, with Isaiah Hartenstein grabbing 17 rebounds and Josh Hart contributing 11. Brunson, who had been under scrutiny for a potential slowdown due to a heavy workload and a foot injury, showed no signs of fatigue, marking his fifth 40-point game this postseason.
Brunson’s 28 points in the first half set a new playoff record for the Knicks, and his consecutive seven points in the second half, including a pivotal three-pointer, secured the Knicks’ substantial lead and the win.
Coach Thibodeau expressed his confidence in the team’s resilience and focus on securing one more win to advance further in the playoffs.
In the Western Conference, the Denver Nuggets continued their winning streak against the Minnesota Timberwolves, with Nikola Jokic scoring 40 points. The Nuggets, who were initially down 2-0 in the series, are now a single victory away from returning to the Western Conference finals.
Jokic, who received his third Most Valuable Player award before the game, demonstrated his exceptional talent, contributing significantly to the Nuggets’ halftime lead. Despite an early third-quarter surge by the Timberwolves, Jokic’s additional 16 points widened the gap, leading to an 88-74 advantage for Denver.
The Nuggets successfully contained Anthony Edwards, limiting the Timberwolves’ star to 18 points. Denver’s head coach Michael Malone commended the team’s defensive strategy against Edwards, which played a crucial role in their triumph.
As the Nuggets prepare for the next game in Minnesota, Jokic emphasizes the team’s determination to win and advance, reflecting the competitive spirit that has brought them this far in the series.
Reported By AFP.
