INDIANAPOLIS — For the longest time Sunday night, it seemed we were watching the Knicks through a looking glass. One after the other, Knicks stepped up and took turns making huge plays in support of the cause of another comeback, from 20 points down in the first half, from 15 down with 2 minutes and 6 seconds to go in the third quarter.

First it was Deuce McBride,<a href="https://nypost.com/2025/05/26/sports/foul-plagued-miles-mcbride-provides-late-spark-for-knicks-in-game-3-vs-pacers/"> scoring seven straight points</a> to drag the deficit to eight, 78-70, just before the third quarter expired (though Myles Turner dunked to extend the lead back to 10). Then it was Karl-Anthony Towns,<a href="https://nypost.com/2025/05/26/sports/karl-anthony-towns-finally-had-his-knicks-moment/"> transforming the game all by himself </a>with a tour de force offensive explosion. Then Josh Hart, coming off the bench, ensnaring every important rebound.

And all the while Jalen Brunson was cooling his heels on the bench. He had five fouls, so that was one big reason he was there.

There were a few especially silly media musings Monday wondering if the Knicks might be better off relying less on Brunson because of the way the Pacers play. There are foolish takes, there are idi…{ai:summary}<p>The Knicks mounted a dramatic comeback against the Pacers, overcoming a 20-point deficit in the first half and a 15-point deficit late in the third quarter. Key contributions came from Deuce McBride, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Josh Hart, while Jalen Brunson sat out due to foul trouble.</p><p>Despite Brunson's absence, the Knicks showcased resilience and teamwork to close the gap, demonstrating their potential to rally in tough situations. #sports</p>

What Knicks surviving a Jalen Brunson dud means for the rest of Eastern Conference finals

Loading...