Jalen Brunson's Return Energizes Knicks in Game 2 Victory
Brunson's Timely Comeback Boosts New York
New York, NY – May 8, 2024
Jalen Brunson returned from a right foot injury in the second half of Game 2 against the Indiana Pacers on Wednesday night, providing a much-needed boost to the New York Knicks. Brunson, who is averaging 27.2 points per game this season, was injured while attempting a jump shot over Jalen Smith in the first half. He returned to action in the third quarter and immediately made an impact, scoring 24 points and helping the Knicks to a 110-105 victory.
"It was great to be back out there with my teammates," Brunson said after the game. "I was just trying to do whatever I could to help the team win." Brunson's presence on the court was immediately felt, as he helped the Knicks cut into a 10-point deficit in the third quarter. He hit a pair of free throws to start the quarter, then drained a three-pointer to bring the Knicks within three points. Brunson continued to score in the fourth quarter, hitting a jumper to give the Knicks their first lead of the game with 5:30 remaining.
Brunson's return was particularly timely for the Knicks, who were without starting point guard Immanuel Quickley due to a calf injury. Alec Burks started in Quickley's place and played well, but Brunson's experience and leadership were invaluable in the second half. Coach Tom Thibodeau was impressed with Brunson's performance.
"Jalen was fantastic tonight," Thibodeau said. "He came back in the second half and played with great energy and focus. He made some big plays for us on both ends of the floor." Brunson's return will be a major boost for the Knicks in their next game on Friday against the Atlanta Hawks. With Quickley still out, Brunson will likely start and be expected to carry a heavy load offensively. If he can continue to play at the same level he did in Game 2, the Knicks will be a tough team to beat.
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