Despite scoring 25 points in the New York Knicks’ 108-101 loss to Miami Heat in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, Jalen Brunson took responsibility for his team’s defeat, citing his 0-for-7 from the 3-point line and lack of rhythm once away from the paint. The Knicks struggled as a whole from long range, finishing 7-for-34 from beyond the arc, but remain optimistic about their chances in the series, with Game 2 coming up on Tuesday.
Brunson acknowledged that the Heat had key moments in the game where the Knicks needed to be stronger, and attributed the loss to his poor performance on the 3-point line. He admitted that his performance was uncharacteristic and that he needed to be better, but maintained that the team needed to stick together and fix their mistakes as they move forward in the series.
The Knicks’ All Star forward Julius Randle missed Sunday’s game with a sprained left ankle, but got a workout in before the game and may be making progress towards a return. The team remains optimistic about their chances, with guard Josh Hart emphasising that every game in the series will be different and that their confidence and ability to stick together as a team will be key.
