The New York Knicks are gearing up for their first Eastern Conference Finals appearance since 2000.
This upcoming playoff series is just the latest chapter in a quite storied rivalry.
The Knicks made light work of the Boston Celtics in Game 6 and got the opportunity to clinch in front of their home crowd at Madison Square Garden.
New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) guarded by Indiana Pacers guard Andrew Nembhard (2)
New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) guarded by Indiana Pacers guard Andrew Nembhard (2)
© Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Ex-NBA star makes major Jalen Brunson claim
Jalen Brunson continues to stun people with his late-game heroics. Even after he officially took home the NBA's Clutch Player of the Year award, he seems to be able to do it on command.
Multiple times in the playoffs so far, against both the Celtics and Detroit Pistons, Brunson would come in during the fourth quarter facing a deficit and would put the team on his back and lead them to victory.
As a result, former NBA player DeMarcus Cousins delivered a shocking claim regarding Brunson and Los Angeles Lakers forward Luka Doncic on who he would rather have.
"I'm going to take Jalen Brunson because he's still playing," Cousins said. "That's obvious. One guy's at home and one guy's playing. The guy at home can't help me right now.
"We're not talking who's the best overall talent. If we're talking about who's the best overall talent, yeah, we can go with Luka. But as of right now, I'm taking the guy who's still active in the playoffs.
Brunson will look to continue his clutch play in a series where they'll need him the most. The Pacers are well-rested and will be ready for the challenge.
The Pacers will also come in with confidence after bouncing the Knicks from the playoffs last season.
But, as we've seen, as long as they can keep the game in striking distance, having Brunson out there in the fourth quarter will always give them a puncher's chance.