New York Knicks head coach Mike Brown revealed just how concerned he became during Jalen Brunson's injury scare in Game 1 of the 2026 NBA Finals. Brunson briefly exited Wednesday night's matchup against the San Antonio Spurs, prompting Brown to consider a significant lineup adjustment before the All-Star guard returned to the floor.
Despite the scare, Brunson came back and delivered a game-high 30 points as the Knicks erased a double-digit deficit and defeated the Spurs 105-95 to take a 1-0 series lead. New York Daily News's Kristian Winfield took to X, formerly Twitter, sharing Brown's candid postgame remarks about the moment.
“I get too emotional when I get caught up injuries so when he got hurt and he went out, I said Jose let's go. I was about to throw Tyler Kolek in the game but Jalen came back.”
Mike Brown on Jalen Brunson's injury: "I get too emotional when I get caught up injuries so when he got hurt and he went out, I said Jose let's go. I was about to throw Tyler Kolek in the game but Jalen came back."
— Kristian Winfield (@Krisplashed) June 4, 2026
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Brown's comments highlighted both the importance of Brunson to New York's championship hopes and the confidence the coaching staff has in its reserve guards. Tyler Kolek, a rookie known for his passing ability and toughness, was moments away from seeing meaningful NBA Finals minutes before the three-time NBA All-Star guard returned.
The injury scare briefly shifted momentum in a game that already featured several dramatic swings. San Antonio built a lead that reached 14 points in the second half behind Victor Wembanyama and a strong home-court atmosphere. However, the Knicks responded with disciplined defense and timely shot-making to claw back into contention.
Brunson ultimately finished with 30 points, including 13 in the fourth quarter, helping the Knicks close the game on an 11-0 run. Karl-Anthony Towns added 18 points and 12 rebounds, while OG Anunoby provided clutch late-game scoring as well.
New York will look to seize full control of the series Friday night when it attempts to take a commanding 2-0 lead in Game 2.
New York Knicks head coach Mike Brown revealed just how concerned he became during Jalen Brunson's injury scare in Game 1 of the 2026 NBA Finals. Brunson briefly exited Wednesday night's matchup against the San Antonio Spurs, prompting Brown to consider a significant lineup adjustment before the All-Star guard returned to the floor.