Superstar basketball players are judged most by how they perform in the big spots. These include playoff games and clutch moments, but also rivalry games. If you’re a New York Knicks player, fans will always want to see you play well against the 76ers and Celtics. Well, Jalen Brunson has answered the bell in that regard since he arrived in the Big Apple in 2022, especially against the 76ers. Brunson’s Philly domination continued in last night’s overtime win, where he dropped 38 points (16 in the fourth quarter and OT) to carry his squad to the finish line.
Brunson’s Philly Domination Continues In OT Win
In the same arena where Brunson helped hang two national championship banners for Villanova, he repeatedly silenced the Philly crowd while leading New York to a gritty overtime victory. It wasn’t the first time the Knicks’ captain stole the show at the Wells Fargo Center. Familiar MVP chants rained down from the outsized number of Knicks fans as Brunson performed magic once again.
Thanks to Brunson, New York Has the Upper Hand Vs. 76ers
Before the Villanova product brought his talents to NYC, Philly had dominated this rivalry in stunning fashion. Since Joel Embiid played his first full season with the Sixers in 2017-18, they held a 17-2 record over their arch-rival until Brunson entered the series. In ten games since, New York is 7-3, behind Brunson’s 24.2 points and 7.4 assists on 58 percent true shooting. While these numbers won’t blow you away, his steady hand that the Knicks have craved made all the difference. He’s also provided several incredible moments, similar to his fourth-quarter/overtime frenzy on Wednesday night.
Last night’s matchup was more of the same. The 76ers doubled Brunson once he crossed half-court on nearly every crunch time possession, which he dissected with ease. Once a skill he struggled with, his quick pocket passes to the open man (usually Josh Hart) allowed New York to play four-on-three on the backside. This team has too much talent, even without Karl-Anthony Towns, to be stopped in an advantage situation. OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, Deuce McBride, and Precious Achiuwa all had late buckets off these open looks because of Brunson’s gravity. If the Knicks continue to face the same defensive coverages, their offense will remain unstoppable.
2024 First-Round
However, Brunson has really made his money in this rivalry in last year’s playoff series. The six-game battle between New York and Philly was one of the best first-round series in recent memory. In a matchup complete with several enthralling storylines, Brunson took the cake with his absurd numbers over the final four contests, where he averaged 41.8 points and 10.3 assists on incredible efficiency, considering the circumstances. Despite facing constant double-teams due to his banged-up Knicks roster, Brunson lifted New York to victory.
Brunson truly ascended to superstar status with his unbelievable series, outplaying Embiid straight up. After years of flying under the radar due despite consistent production, the Knicks captain finally got the basketball world’s attention. He’s also received the respect of Knicks fans, a feat only accomplished by a handful of players. Performing in the postseason and beating their rivals will earn you lifetime kudos with the New York faithful. Wednesday night’s outburst was just the latest in what’s beginning to look like a legendary Knicks career.
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