Jalen Brunson scored a career-high 43 points, leading the New York Knicks to a thrilling 121-117 victory over the Indiana Pacers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals during Monday’s NBA playoff action.
Brunson’s fourth-quarter performance was nothing short of spectacular. He scored 21 points in the final period to help his team overcome a nine-point deficit. He became the fourth player in NBA history to score at least 40 points in four consecutive playoff games, joining elite company alongside Hall of Famers Jerry West, Michael Jordan, and Bernard King.
The Knicks’ bench struggled to find its rhythm, getting outscored 46-3 by the Pacers’ reserves. However, the starters, led by Brunson, Donte DiVincenzo, and Josh Hart, made up for it with their strong play. DiVincenzo added 25 points, including a crucial tiebreaking 3-pointer with 40 seconds remaining, while Hart chipped in with a playoff career-high 24 points, 13 rebounds, and eight assists.
“We’re not expecting any calls to go our way, especially on the road,” Pacers coach Rick Carlisle said. “We have to take responsibility for our own mistakes and find ways to overcome them.”
The series is shaping up to be closely contested, with both teams willing to fight for every point. The Pacers’ Myles Turner led his team with 23 points, while Tyrese Haliburton added six points and eight assists despite being hampered by back spasms.
The game was marked by intense physicality and numerous momentum swings. The Pacers’ bench outscored the Knicks’ reserves by a whopping 46-3 margin, but the Knicks’ starters made up for it with their stellar play. Brunson’s ability to perform under pressure and his willingness to do whatever it takes to win has made him a leader on the court.
“Donte made some big shots, and Josh played an incredible game,” Brunson said. “We’re just trying to find ways to win. We’re not worried about individual stats or accolades. We’re focused on advancing to the next round.”
The Knicks’ win was hard-fought, with both teams showing high intensity and physicality. With 12.7 seconds remaining, Aaron Nesmith was called for a kicked ball violation, which led to a crucial free throw by Brunson. The Pacers challenged the call, but it was upheld upon review. The officiating decisions sparked major controversy from observers.
“We’re all looking forward to that coming out,” Turner said. “In my experience in this league, I think it’s the best when the players decide the outcome of the game. I think it’s unfortunate it happened. We reviewed it, and they still called it an illegal screen, but it’s the playoffs, man.”
With the win, the Knicks take a 1-0 lead in the series. They will look to build on their momentum in Game 2 on Wednesday when they face off against the Pacers once again at Madison Square Garden.
The series is shaping up to be thrilling, with both teams showing a high level of determination and grit. The Knicks will look to continue their strong play and take a commanding 2-0 lead, while the Pacers will aim to bounce back and even the series.
One thing is certain: the intensity and physicality of the series will only continue to ramp up as the games go on.
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