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Jalen Brunson erupts for 38 points in Knicks' historic comeback win

May 20, 2026, 2:00 AM60
(Update: May 20, 2026, 9:00 PM)
American basketball player
National Basketball Association team in Cleveland, Ohio

Jalen Brunson erupts for 38 points in Knicks' historic comeback win

  • The New York Knicks overcame a 22-point deficit with less than 8 minutes left in the game.
  • Jalen Brunson led the team with 38 points, tying the game in the final seconds of regulation.
  • The Knicks' victory places them closer to their first NBA Finals appearance since 1999.
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On May 16, 2023, in New York City, an incredible comeback took place as Jalen Brunson led the New York Knicks to a 115-104 overtime victory against the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference finals. The Knicks were trailing by 22 points with just under eight minutes left in the fourth quarter and had struggled for most of the game. However, Brunson took charge, scoring crucial points and instigating an 18-1 run that helped the team equalize the score by tying the game at 101 with 19 seconds remaining in regulation. This game marked a significant moment in the season for the Knicks, who had enjoyed a strong performance throughout the playoffs up until this point, culminating in victories over teams like Atlanta and Philadelphia by large margins. Nonetheless, the pressure was on the Knicks to avoid a home defeat against Cleveland, especially after their prior playoff disappointment in the previous year when they let a lead slip away in Game 1 against Indiana. Bruising Cavaliers guard James Harden and a few others contributed to Cleveland's strong performance, signaling a dominant three quarters from the visitors, but ultimately it was Brunson's relentless effort that ignited a turnaround. Brunson's performance this postseason underlines his emergence as the franchise cornerstone for the Knicks since joining the team in 2022. His ability to elevate his game, especially in clutch situations, has turned what could have been a disastrous defeat into a thrilling victory, further boosting the Knicks’ aspirations for their first NBA Finals appearance since 1999. The victory extended the Knicks’ winning streak to eight games and set the tone for the rest of the playoff series. The implications of this game extend beyond the win itself. It reinforces the resilience of the Knicks and potentially shifts the dynamics of the series against the Cavaliers. With Brunson showing remarkable skill under pressure, the Knicks are poised to take a more significant lead in the playoffs, hoping to capitalize on their recent form and the energy from the fans, which was palpable during the comeback in Madison Square Garden. Looking forward to Game 2, the Knicks, fueled by Brunson's standout performance and the home crowd’s enthusiasm, aim to leverage their momentum and approach this series with renewed confidence.

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