The New York Knicks started their semi-final series with a dominant 137-98 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers. The Knicks’ win in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semi-finals continues their historic postseason run. Jalen Brunson led the charge, scoring 27 of his 35 points in the first half.
Knicks’ Historic Postseason Performance
The Knicks have become the first team in NBA history to win three straight postseason games by at least 25 points. This dominant run began midway through the first round against Atlanta. The Knicks shot 63 per cent from the field and led by as many as 40 points against the 76ers.
Karl-Anthony Towns acknowledged the team’s strong play but emphasised the need to remain focused. “We’re playing well, but it doesn’t mean anything if we can’t find a way to get three more wins,” said Towns. “So, we’ve just got to stick to the task at hand.” Towns contributed 17 points, six rebounds, and six assists in just 20 minutes, while OG Anunoby added 18 points on 7-for-8 shooting. Mikal Bridges also had 17 points.
76ers Struggle After Comeback Win
The 76ers had just one full day off after completing a comeback from a 3-1 deficit against Boston. However, they appeared to revert to the form that saw them lose twice by 32 points in the first four games of that series. Paul George scored 17 points for Philadelphia.
Joel Embiid struggled, shooting just 3 for 11 and finishing with 14 points. Tyrese Maxey also had a quiet game, scoring 13 points and not making his first basket until five minutes into the second quarter.
Knicks’ Focus and Attention to Detail
Brunson highlighted the Knicks’ improved focus and attention to detail since falling behind against Atlanta. “Yes, it’s turned into obviously big wins, but those attention to detail things are going to help us in the close ones as well,” Brunson said. The Knicks crushed Atlanta 140-89 in Game 6, setting a postseason record by building a 47-point halftime lead.
76ers coach Nick Nurse acknowledged the Knicks’ superior performance. “They were obviously picking us apart, moving a lot better than we were,” Nurse said. The Knicks scored eight straight points midway through the second quarter, extending a 10-point lead to 57-39. Brunson scored their final 11 points, capped by a 3-pointer with 0.3 seconds remaining in the quarter.
Looking Ahead
Game 2 is on Wednesday night before the series shifts to Philadelphia. Joel Embiid is already appealing to 76ers fans not to sell their tickets to Knicks fans. The Knicks have won four straight games by a total of 135 points after trailing 2-1 against Atlanta.