Game 2 of the Eastern Conference first round of this NBA playoffs between the
New York Knicks and the
Philadelphia 76ers was a true nailbiter. The Knicks were able to come back from a 4-point deficit in the last minute of the 4th quarter after a crazy sequence. Excellent win for the Knicks 104-101.
On the series opener, the New York Knicks got away with a great win, proving how well prepared they are this year despite the absense of their All-star power forward, Julius Randle. The same phisicality was brought again for the second matchup from both teams.
Joel Embiid was a monster despite playing through that pesky knee injury. He looks slower and limited on the floor, you can tell that it's bothering him. The reigning MVP is playing his heart out and that deserves a lot of respect.
New York played with a great sense of urgency. Tom Thibodeau's team doesn't give away anything easy to the Sixers. The Knicks bench has been on a great level throughout the entire season and tonight both McBride and Bojan Bogdanovic came up with some key baskets in the fourth.
Jalen Brunson finished the game with 24 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists. The Sixers are playing a very tight defense on him, which is affecting his efficiency. Today, JB shot 8-29 from the field, however, he and DiVincenzo came up huge in the last minute of the game to propel New York's victory.
Josh Hart continues being the x-factor in the series, tonight he registered 21 points alongside with 13 rebounds, 2 steals and 2 blocks. He played the entire 48 minutes, just amazing.
As mentioned, Joel Embiid, battling with his knee injury was still able to score 34 points.
Tyrese Maxey led Phila with his 35 points. However, not a single player besides these two was able to score double digits. This needs to change if the Sixers want to extend the series.
Next game will be held on Philadelphia next Thursday. It's nearly a do or die game for Nick Nurse's team. The rest of the team needs to step up in order to help Embiid and Maxey who are carrying all the Sixers' offense by themselves.