Brunson's Injury Return Fuels Knicks' Comeback Win, 2-0 Series Lead

On Wednesday night, the New York Knicks defeated the Indiana Pacers 130-121 after Jalen Brunson overcame a foot ailment. With 24 of his 29 points coming in the second half, Brunson gave the Knicks a commanding 2-0 lead in the Eastern Conference playoffs.

On the anniversary of Willis Reed’s historic 1970 NBA Finals comeback, the team triumphed. After sitting out the whole second quarter, Brunson made an appearance at halftime that electrified the Madison Square Garden crowd and helped the Knicks overcome a double-digit deficit.

Even with Brunson’s valiant efforts, OG Anunoby’s left hamstring injury derailed the Knicks’ victory. This season, New York has already lost a number of important players to injuries.

For the New York Knicks, Josh Hart finished with 19 points, 15 rebounds, and seven assists. Donte DiVincenzo added 28 points. Tyrese Haliburton of Indiana recovered from a subpar effort in Game 1 with 34 points.

Disagreement and Expulsion

The Indiana Pacers‘ attempt to rally was derailed by their subpar free-throw shooting (10-for-17). Pacers coach Rick Carlisle was ejected late in the game following two technical fouls.

For Games 3 and 4, the series travels to Indiana.