Jalen Brunson Leads Knicks To 3-2 Series Lead

referee Scott Foster (48) gets in between Indiana Pacers' Myles Turner, left, and New York Knicks' Donte DiVincenzo during the second half of Game 5 in an NBA basketball second-round playoff series, T

The New York Knicks are on the brink of reaching the Eastern Conference finals for the first time since 2000 after a dominant 121-91 victory over the Indiana Pacers in Game 5 of their playoff series. Jalen Brunson led the charge with a stellar performance, scoring 44 points and showcasing his scoring prowess once again.

Brunson, who has now scored 40 or more points five times in this postseason, bounced back from a subpar Game 4 to deliver a standout performance that put the Knicks in a commanding position in the series. His offensive outburst was complemented by strong contributions from Josh Hart and Deuce McBride, who added 18 and 17 points, respectively.

The Knicks, seeded second in the Eastern Conference, now have the opportunity to close out the series on Friday night in Indiana. Despite missing key players due to injuries, the Knicks have shown resilience and determination throughout the series.

Jalen Brunson scored 44 points, showcasing scoring prowess.

Knicks lead series 3-2, aiming for first conference finals since 2000.

Knicks have shown resilience despite missing key players to injuries.

Josh Hart and Deuce McBride contributed 18 and 17 points, respectively.

Tom Thibodeau emphasizes staying focused for Game 6.

Pacers struggled to contain Knicks' offensive firepower and dominance.

Physical game with multiple technical fouls called on both teams.

Knicks aim to carry momentum into Game 6 for series closeout.

Brunson's exceptional first-half performance set Knicks playoff record with 28 points.

Indiana coach Rick Carlisle acknowledges team's shortcomings in rebounding and defense.

Head coach Tom Thibodeau emphasized the importance of staying focused and not getting ahead of themselves, knowing that one more win is needed to advance to the next round. Brunson's exceptional performance, especially in the first half where he set a Knicks playoff record with 28 points, propelled the team to victory.

The Pacers, led by Pascal Siakam's 22 points, struggled to contain the Knicks' offensive firepower and dominance on the boards. Indiana coach Rick Carlisle acknowledged his team's shortcomings, particularly in rebounding and defensive intensity, which allowed the Knicks to control the game.

The physicality of the game was evident with multiple technical fouls called on both teams, reminiscent of the intense matchups between the Knicks and Pacers in the 1990s. The Knicks' aggressive play and determination to secure a spot in the conference finals were on full display throughout the game.

With Game 6 scheduled for Friday night in Indiana, the Knicks have a chance to close out the series and advance to the next round. The team's depth and resilience have been key factors in their success, and they will look to carry that momentum into the crucial upcoming game.

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