Jalen Brunson Issues Ruthless Three-Word Message to Limping Josh Hart Mid-Game

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Jalen Brunson Issues Ruthless Three-Word Message to Limping Josh Hart Mid-Game

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Kenny Nosay | Last updated May 22, 2026 8:56 AM ET

Josh Hart fell badly after a layup attempt in the third quarter in Game 2 against the Cleveland Cavaliers. His teammate, Jalen Brunson, is having none of it and encouraged him to brush it off.

With the New York Knicks winning miraculously in Game 1, they know that replicating their success in the next game will be a must. Having a 2-0 cushion would be the best scenario for New York before they head to Cleveland. And for them to do that, they need all their core players available.

But a scary moment happened in Game 2. Hart fell down and immediately grabbed his right ankle after he was fouled while driving for a layup. Despite being visibly concerned for his teammate and friend, Jalen Brunson ruthlessly encouraged Hart by saying, “Walk it off.’

Jalen Brunson to a limping Josh Hart after he rolled his ankle

“Walk it off”

(h/t @KnicksBeast) pic.twitter.com/f01MdmuXRW
— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) May 22, 2026

And his words magically worked. Hart led New York with 26 big points in their 109-93 win against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Jalen Brunson played 40 minutes and had 19 points for the Knicks.

Most importantly, the Knicks now lead the Cavaliers 2-0 in the Eastern Conference Finals. They are two games away from reaching the NBA Finals, a feat they have not done since 1999.

Jalen Brunson Shuns Star Label

When people talk about the New York Knicks, they immediately point to Jalen Brunson as the team’s star. And it’s hard to argue that statement. Ever since he arrived with the Knicks in 2022, the team has become a constant figure in the East playoffs. But if you ask the 29-year-old, he doesn’t necessarily view himself as the top dog in New York.

“One, I’m not a star. Two, I want to win,” Brunson told reporters.

Truth be told, this Knicks team has one of the deepest rosters in the league. Many guys are capable of scoring the ball when given the chance. However, Jalen Brunson is no doubt their top man. He is their go-to bucket getter whenever things get tough down the stretch.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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