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Brunson’s Leadership Shines Through as Knicks Fight Back in Conference Finals

NBA access_alarms2025-05-29 16:59:15 visibility8 text_decrease title text_increase

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Table of Contents

Thibodeau's Controversial Lineup Decision

In a must-win Game 3 facing 0-2 series deficit, New York Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau sparked immediate debate by starting Mitchell Robinson over playoff standout Josh Hart. The move drew sharp criticism from TNT analyst Charles Barkley during halftime coverage:

"This lineup makes them slower defensively. They're running the same play repeatedly - it's not sustainable against playoff-level competition."

Brunson's Diplomatic Defense

Despite playing through a foot injury that limited his mobility, Jalen Brunson delivered both on the court (23 points) and at the podium. When pressed about Thibodeau's strategy postgame, the All-Star Guard demonstrated veteran leadership:

"I had a perfect response ready," Brunson smirked before turning serious. "But what matters is our trust in each other. Outside opinions don't define this group."

Jalen Brunson Defends Coach Thibodeau Amid Charles Barkley Criticism as Knicks Salvage Game 3

Game-Changing Adjustments

Bench Unit Sparks Comeback

The Knicks' third-quarter resurgence came from unexpected sources. Reserve players Delon Wright and Landry Shamet combined for 9 points during a crucial 16-4 run that shifted momentum.

Towns' Fourth Quarter Takeover

Karl-Anthony Towns silenced critics with a dominant final period, scoring 15 of New York's first 17 points in the quarter. His 20-point fourth-quarter explosion marked a career playoff high.

Challenges Ahead

While the 106-100 victory keeps New York's championship hopes alive, concerns remain:

Thibodeau's condensed 7-man rotation
OG Anunoby's ongoing injury absence
Brunson's health status

Looking to Game 4

As the series shifts back to Madison Square Garden for Game 4, all eyes will be on Indiana's response. Pacers star Tyrese Haliburton vowed postgame: "We let one slip away. The real series starts now."

The Knicks' ability to maintain their defensive intensity while managing player fatigue could determine whether they can level the series before returning to Indiana.