The New York Knicks, after beating the Detroit Pistons and Boston Celtics in the first and second rounds of the NBA playoffs, were expected to be the better team against the Indiana Pacers.
They boast bigger stars and better players, although Indiana came into Madison Square Garden and won both games, taking a commanding 2-0 series lead before the series heads to Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
One former player pointed fingers at one of the Knicks' very best players, blaming him for the losses.
New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) celebrates with center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) during their game against the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena on Dec. 28, 2024.
New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) celebrates with center Karl-Anthony Towns (32) during their game against the Washington Wizards at Capital One Arena on Dec. 28, 2024.
Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
"You know how the Knicks lose these games?" asked Jeff Teague. "Jalen Brunson holds the ball for, the shot clock is 24 seconds, he's holding that b---- for 17.
Brunson is a -4 in the series, and it's clear that the Knicks need to make some big changes. Unfortunately, the Knicks might opt to start Mitchell Robinson over Josh Hart in Game 3, which will limit Brunson's passing options even more.
Of course, Robinson will get offensive rebounds, allowing Brunson to jack up more shots, for better or worse.
"It's the way he holds the ball, they don't get no rhythm," Teague continued. "That's why when he comes out the game, all of a sudden the pace pick up, the tempo pick up, all of a sudden you see people start hooping a little bit. He holds the ball so long, he's a great player, hell of a player, he makes tough shots, he does all that.But he holds it for 18 seconds and then they get one attempt."
It sounds cliche, but Game 3 is a true must-win contest for New York, and everyone, even Brunson, needs to alter the way they play.
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