Jalen Brunson Returns from Injury, Sparks Knicks Past Pacers

Knicks Take 2-0 Lead in East Semifinals

Jalen Brunson's return from a foot injury proved to be a major spark for the New York Knicks, as they defeated the Indiana Pacers 113-105 to take a 2-0 lead in their Eastern Conference semifinal series.

Brunson's Impact

Brunson, who missed the final two games of the Knicks' first-round series against the Atlanta Hawks, scored 27 points and dished out eight assists in his return. He also hit a clutch three-pointer with 2:09 remaining to give the Knicks a five-point lead.

Pacers Fight Back

The Pacers, who lost the first game of the series by 15 points, showed more fight in Game 2. They cut the Knicks' lead to just four points with 3:35 remaining, but Brunson's three-pointer and a pair of free throws from Mitchell Robinson sealed the victory.

Haliburton Leads Pacers

Tyrese Haliburton led the Pacers with 30 points and 12 assists. He was joined in double figures by Domantas Sabonis (22 points), Buddy Hield (18 points), and Myles Turner (16 points).

Defense Falters

Despite Brunson's strong performance, the Knicks' defense faltered in Game 2. The Pacers shot 45.5% from the field and 38.5% from three-point range. They also had 19 assists to the Knicks' 15.

Conclusion

The Knicks now have a chance to take a commanding 3-0 lead in the series when they host Game 3 on Friday night. The Pacers, meanwhile, will need to regroup and find a way to contain Brunson and the rest of the Knicks' offense.