Jalen Brunsons Clutch 3-pointer eliminated piston, sends Knicks to East Semis

Detroit (AP) -Jalen Brunson's crossover-dribble between his legs created space for a playful 3 pointer with a 4.3 second lead and he blew a kiss in a quiet amount that relentlessly mocked him for three games.

Brunson ended with 40 points to lead the New York Knicks on Thursday evening and in the second round of the NBA playoffs to an 116-113 victory against the Detroit Pistons.

“I stay ready and rely on the trust and serenity that my teammates give me,” said Brunson.

A week after the Point Guard 2024-25 Kia NBA Clutch player of the year was appointed, he lived the billing.

“He is at the best side when his best is used and he did it all year round,” said Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau. “That makes him something special.”

Detroit did not get a shot to potentially tie the game and send it into the extension because Malik Beasley fumbled a pass with four tenths of a second.

“It's difficult,” said Beasley, who had 16 points in the second quarter and ended at 20.

The Knicks with the third time will compete in Boston with the second seed and for the first time since 2000 to become the final of the Eastern Conference.

“You are the defending champion, so we have to be in top form,” said Thibodeau.