Jalen Brunson Makes Clear Knicks Statement Before Game 2 Against Celtics

Jalen Brunson makes clear Knicks statement

Things slowly started to go the Knicks' way.

Kristaps Porzingis left the game for Boston with an illness and did not return. They also lost Sam Hauser to an ankle injury.

In the second half, it was all Knicks. They slowly chipped away at the lead while watching Boston go one-and-done on the offensive end of the floor.

The Celtics went on to set an NBA Playoff record with 45 missed 3-pointers.

As for the Knicks, they caught fire and shot 57.9% from deep in the second half while erasing the deficit and tying the game. Jalen Brunson had a chance to put the game away in the final seconds, but missed the seven-footer.

The Knicks pulled it out in overtime as Boston's shooting struggles continued.

Ahead of Game 2, Brunson delivered a clear message on their mentality.

"We want to continue to improve and continue to get better, because there's bigger challenges ahead," said Brunson.

It remains to be seen how the Knicks attack Game 2 and if Boston will continue to struggle scoring the basketball.

The Celtics will likely be without Hauser, who is listed as doubtful, but they will likely have Porzingis back, who is listed as probable.

Look for both teams to have adjusted from a thrilling and historic Game 1.