As the NBA Playoffs have narrowed down to just four teams that are still in the hunt for the Larry O'Brien trophy, there will be just one team that will come out of the 2025 postseason holding the Larry O'Brien trophy.
In the Western Conference, the Oklahoma City Thunder will face the Minnesota Timberwolves, while in the Eastern Conference, the Indiana Pacers will face the New York Knicks.
A lot of hype surrounds the New York Knicks as they continue their pursuit of an NBA title – something the franchise hasn't achieved since 1973.
Being led by NBA Clutch Player of the Year Jalen Brunson, the Knicks return to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time since 2000.
New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) reacts with guard Jalen Brunson (11).
New York Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) reacts with guard Jalen Brunson (11).
Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
Although it seems that New York hasn't achieved much, they have found success that hasn't been seen in quite a long time.
Jalen Brunson describes his mindset heading into the ECF matchup against the Pacers.
It's been a hard-fought battle for the Knicks in their playoff run, beating the Detroit Pistons in the first round and then knocking out the defending champion Boston Celtics in the second round.
Jalen Brunson was able to speak to the press on Monday, and it seems as if he's not quite satisfied with his Knicks team.
"It was very important and great for the fans to have our backs and celebrate the way they did. But for us, we know there's a long way to go."
"We don't really look at it as an accomplishment. It's just the next step - we're grateful, we're thankful, but we know there's a long way to go," He told the press leading up to their matchup with the Indiana Pacers.
Brunson's been in a familiar position, helping lead the Dallas Mavericks to a Western Conference Finals in 2022 before getting put out by the NBA champion Golden State Warriors.
He will attempt to continue his impressive playoff run where he's averaged 28.8 points and 7.7 assists while shooting 44% from the field.
Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals begins Wednesday, May 21, as the New York Knicks host the Indiana Pacers.