Photo Credit:Adam Hunger/Associated Press
Jalen Brunson delivered a stellar performance, scoring 40 points—including a clutch game-winning three-pointer—as the New York Knicks clinched a 4-2 series victory over the Detroit Pistons. With just 4.3 seconds remaining in game six, Brunson sank the decisive shot to secure a 116-113 win at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit. The 28-year-old, recently named the NBA’s Clutch Player of the Year, once again proved his value in high-pressure moments.
Reflecting on the moment, Brunson credited his teammates for the trust and calm they instill in him, saying, "I stay poised and I rely on the trust and the composure that my teammates give me. None of this happens without them." Alongside his 40-point effort, Brunson also contributed four rebounds and seven assists. Supporting him were Mikal Bridges with 25 points and OG Anunoby, who added 22, helping the Knicks move on to
face the defending champions and 18-time title holders, the Boston Celtics, in the Eastern Conference semi-finals.
Meanwhile, on the West Coast, the Los Angeles Clippers forced a game seven in their play-off series against the Denver Nuggets with a hard-fought 111-105 victory in Inglewood, California. James Harden led the charge for the Clippers with 28 points, eight assists, and six rebounds. Despite a strong showing from Denver’s Nikola Jokic—who posted 25 points, eight assists, and seven rebounds—the Nuggets couldn’t close out the series.
Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue praised Harden’s performance, noting, "James did a great job setting the tone early, scoring the basketball and getting downhill and making the right play." He also acknowledged key contributions from Norman Powell, who hit crucial shots late in the game, and Kawhi Leonard, who remained consistent throughout. The Clippers, still chasing their first-ever NBA Championship, will now face a high-stakes game seven with hopes of advancing further into the postseason.
