Learn more about his playoff mastery and what the team needs now
Jalen Brunson became a playoff force, offering a performance with NBA legends. When the New York Knicks faced the Indiana Pacers 3-2 in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Finals, Brunson’s leadership and scoring ability were crucial. His ability to carry the team, coupled with the strategic support of his teammates, will determine whether the Knicks can force seven games and compete for a spot in the NBA finals.
As the New York Knicks prepare for Game 6 of the Indiana Pacers in the Eastern Conference Finals, a question was unsolved: Can Jalen Brunson bring them to the NBA Finals? Short answer: Yes, but not alone. Let’s break Brunson’s incredible playoff performance, evaluate what the auxiliary actors have to do, and predict how the next two games will be played in the Knicks.
Jalen Brunson: Knicks’ Engine
In the 2024-25 playoffs, Brunson is amazing. average 33.9 points, 7.4 assists and 3.8 rebounds per gamehe became one of the most important offensive threats in the league. His playoff score is the best in modern NBA history, putting him in an elite company.
In particular, Brunson has recorded Five games 40 points In the playoffs, he demonstrated his ability to withstand pressure. In Game 5 against the Pacers, the series tied 2-2 and he lost 44 points (his fourth 40-point outing) so everyone can put a team on his back when it matters most.
Jalen Brunson scores a win over the playoffs
| game | point | Assist | fg% | 3pt% |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Game 1 vs ind | 43 | 5 | 60% | 16% |
| Game 2 vs ind | 36 | 11 | 48% | 41% |
| Game 3 vs. IND | twenty three | 1 | 33% | 20% |
| Game 4 vs. IND | 31 | 5 | 47% | 33% |
| Game 5 vs. IND | 32 | 5 | 66% | 57% |
What makes Brunson so effective?
- Elite Shooting Creation: Brunson is the master of creating his own shots. His isolation of footwork and ability to operate in a narrow space make it difficult for him to guard one-on-one.
- Stay balanced under pressure: His late-game decision was surgery. Whether it’s a bench cover or driving and cutting machine driving and plates, Brunson rarely makes bad decisions during the tightening time.
- lead: Perhaps most importantly, Brunson became a true leader. The team exerts more energy, discipline and confidence on the floor.
Reality: He can’t do it alone
Despite Brunson’s excellence, the Knicks faced a team in Indiana, which was a deep, fast and good coach. Pacers are forcing mistakes, pushing the rhythm, and attacking mismatches when transitioning. Brunson’s score will keep New York on the game, but his support cast must rise.
Main support players: What they have to do
Karl-Anthony Town (KAT)
Kat showed brilliant flashes, including 24 points and 13 hits in Game 5. However, he is also prone to making mistakes. Town must continue to play a role in the ball as the Pacers capture Brunson and force the kick out.
- Average is at least 20 points per game.
- Shooted from three 38%+.
- 2 turnovers per game.
Mitchell Robinson
Robinson is crucial to stopping the Pacers’ drives and grabbing the controversial board. His ability to turn on the perimeter and defend the paint made Indiana guards even harder.
- Protect the edge without foul.
- A second chance is offered through the offensive committee.
Josh Hart
Hart is glue, three points in time. While he doesn’t need to score, his hustle and bustle is crucial.
- Become a defensive plug on Tyrese Haliburton.
- Open the corner three points.
Donte Divincenzo & Bench Mob
Divincenzo had to continue hitting the three-pointer and pushing the pace. Deuce McBride, the precious Achiuwa and Isaiah Hartenstein need to bring energy and toughness.
- At least 25 merge points are available on the bench.
- Limit Indiana’s bench scoring advantage.
Turnover issues
Knicks Average 15 turnovers per game This series brings too many simple quick breakthrough opportunities to Indiana. Reducing live ball mistakes is essential. If they wish to expand the series, they will not be able to provide the Pacers with 10-15 points.
What is needed to win a 6 and 7 match
The Knicks have resilience in all playoffs and have won six wins. Indiana’s Game 6 will test the solution. If Brunson stays hot, the support lineup will strengthen defense and ball safety, then victory is OK. Game 7, returning to Madison Square Garden will bring huge emotional and family occasions to the Knicks.
Game plan key:
- Limit Indiana to less than 110 points.
- Win 5+ rebounds.
- Hit 12+ three-pointers.
- Brunson needs 35 points and 7+ assists.
- Supporting the actor requires a combination of at least 60 points.
Can he do it?
So, Jalen Brunson is good enough to bring the Knicks to the finals? Absolutely – Only the Knicks play as a team. Brunson has an MVP level, but playoff basketball games are not allowed to play solo in the playoffs. Each championship game is based on the precise completion of the stars and role players.
Brunson will bring a fire. The question is whether the rest of the Knicks can match it to focus, resilience and execution.
If they do, the Garden will swing for Game 7 and the finals won’t fall behind.
