New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson delivered another clutch postseason performance as the Knicks defeated the Philadelphia 76ers 108-102 on Wednesday night, taking a commanding 2-0 lead in their Eastern Conference semifinal series.
After suffering a crushing defeat in Game 1, Philadelphia arrived at Madison Square Garden determined to respond despite missing injured superstar Joel Embiid. The reigning MVP was ruled out before tip-off with hip soreness and an ankle sprain, but the Sixers still pushed New York all the way in a tense contest that featured 25 lead changes and 14 ties.
New York Knicks vs Philadelphia 76ers – How It Happened
Brunson once again proved decisive in the closing stages, scoring eight points in the fourth quarter and finishing with 26 overall. His back-to-back jumpers late in the game
helped the Knicks finally create separation after both teams had traded blows throughout the night.
“It’s a playoff basketball game. You know, the game was ugly offensively,” said Knicks coach Mike Brown.
“You give the Sixers a lot of credit. We knew that they were going to come out, they were gonna be physical.”
Philadelphia started brightly, with Tyrese Maxey carrying the offence in Embiid’s absence. Maxey exploded for 15 points in the second quarter and finished the game with 26 points, while Paul George added 19 points with five three-pointers.
However, the Knicks found their rhythm after halftime through Karl-Anthony Towns and OG Anunoby. Towns contributed 20 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists, while Anunoby chipped in with 24 points.
“We played good enough defence to win that game, especially in the fourth,” said Philadelphia head coach Nick Nurse, who bemoaned his team’s ability to score late in the game.
“We played great offence. We just didn’t shot-make.”
The series now shifts to Philadelphia for Game 3 on Friday, with the Sixers anxiously awaiting updates on Embiid’s fitness.
(With inputs from Agencies)
