The New York Knicks and the Denver Nuggets have both taken a 3-2 lead in their respective conference semifinal series after securing victories in their home games.
In a dazzling performance, Jalen Brunson led the Knicks to a resounding 121-91 victory over the Indiana Pacers at Madison Square Garden, scoring an impressive 44 points along with seven assists and four rebounds.
Despite losing two games in Indianapolis, the Knicks now hold a 3-2 lead in the series and will look to secure a spot in the Eastern Conference finals with a win on the road in Game 6.
Brunson’s remarkable display marked his fifth 40+ point game of the playoffs, showcasing his importance to the team’s success this season.
Josh Hart and Isaiah Hartenstein also made significant contributions, with Hart recording 18 points and 11 rebounds, and Hartenstein pulling down 17 rebounds, including 12 offensive boards to tie a franchise playoff record.
Off the bench, Alec Burks added 18 points, while Miles McBride chipped in with 17 points for the Knicks.
Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau praised his team’s energy and resilience, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a high level of intensity throughout the game.
On the other hand, Nikola Jokic, affectionately known as ‘Joker,’ showcased his MVP form by scoring 40 points and dishing out 13 assists to lead the Nuggets to a 112-97 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference semifinals.
With Aaron Gordon, Jamal Murray, and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope also making significant contributions, the Nuggets look poised to advance to the next round of the playoffs.
Jalen Brunson has recorded his fifth 40+ point game of the postseason, the second most 40+ point games in a single postseason in Knicks playoff history. He trails Bernard King (6 – 1984).
— NY_KnicksPR (@NY_KnicksPR) May 15, 2024
MVP ‘Joker’ shines for Nuggets
Meanwhile, Nikola Jokic celebrated his third MVP trophy by scoring 40 points and handing out 13 assists as the Denver Nuggets beat the Minnesota Timberwolves 112-97 in the Western Conference semifinals.
Aaron Gordon logged 18 points and 10 rebounds while Jamal Murray and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope scored 16 points…
Article from www.aljazeera.com