The first two games of the Knicks-Sixers playoff series have been nothing short of thrilling. The resilience of the New York Knicks and the firepower of the Philadelphia 76ers have made for must-see basketball. Here are the key takeaways from the first two games played and kept fans on the edge of their seats.
Key Takeaways From Knicks-Sixers So Far
Remarkable Comebacks
One of the standout features of the series has been the New York Knicks’ ability to mount comebacks from early double-digit deficits. In both Game 1 and Game 2, the Knicks found themselves trailing by more than 10 points in the first quarter. They found a way to claw their way back into contention with tenacity and grit. This resilience speaks volumes about the team’s character and their refusal to back down in the face of adversity.
Josh Hart is a Shooter
A major contributor to the Knicks’ resurgence has been Josh Hart. His back-to-back stellar performances have been instrumental in bringing the team back. In Game 2, Hart dazzled with 21 points and an impressive 15 rebounds, showcasing his versatility on both ends of the floor. His stellar shooting from beyond the arc, including four three-pointers, ignited the Knicks’ offense and kept them within striking distance.
In Game 1, Hart had an equally impressive display with 22 points and 13 rebounds, proving to be a consistent force for the Knicks throughout the series. His ability to step up in crucial moments and deliver game-changing plays has made him a fan favorite. Stepping up with three third quarter threes ended up making the biggest difference.
Jalen Brunson’s Shooting Struggles
On the other side of the spectrum, Jalen Brunson has faced significant challenges in finding his rhythm on the court. In Game 2, Brunson struggled from the field, shooting a mere 8 of 29, highlighting his difficulties in converting scoring opportunities. Luckily, Brunson made clutch baskets in the 4th quarter to help secure the win. This shooting performance was echoed previously in Game 1, where Brunson shot 8 of 26, showcasing a concerning trend.
While Brunson remains a vital piece of the Knicks lineup, his shooting struggles have raised concern. His effectiveness in the series has not matched that of his regular season play. This is credited heavily to the 76ers defense that has undoubtedly played a role in limiting Brunson’s scoring opportunities. He still has his ability to bounce back in Philadelphia if he can probe around defenders like Kelly Oubre Jr. and Tobias Harris for a full game.
As the series progresses, both teams will need to make strategic adjustments to gain the upper hand. The Knicks must continue their resilience and capitalize on their comeback ability to challenge the Sixers’ dominance. Josh Hart’s consistent performances will be key in leading the Knicks’ charge.
The Last Word
On the other hand, the Sixers will look to Jalen Brunson and their core players to step up and regain their offensive efficiency. With the series 2-0 in the Knicks favor, every game becomes pivotal and the intensity is expected to reach new heights. Fans can expect more thrilling moments and dramatic twists as the Knicks-Sixers series unfolds.
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