Jalen Brunson struggled at the start of Game 2 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, but turned things around to finish with 30 points and help the Knicks secure a 111-105 victory. Earlier, the point guard had gone 1 for 6 from the field and admitted he felt the weight of expectations. Brunson said he looked within himself and decided to stop feeling sorry for himself and “just go hoop”.
The Knicks’ coach, Tom Thibodeau, praised Brunson’s leadership and toughness, noting he never quits on a play. Julius Randle also returned to the Knicks’ line-up after missing a week with a left ankle injury he aggravated during a series-clinching win last week. Randle acknowledged the mental difficulties of his rehab, but said he was happy to have contributed to the Knicks’ win.
Randle deflected questions about how his ankle was feeling, saying he was happy to take things one day at a time to ensure he could be available to help the team. The Knicks will head to Miami for Game 3 on Saturday, with the series now finely poised at 1-1.
