The New York Knicks’ All-Star point guard, Jalen Brunson, surpassed a longstanding playoff scoring record held by Patrick Ewing, setting a new franchise benchmark in Game Two of the 2025 NBA Eastern Conference Finals against the Indiana Pacers. Brunson scored 36 points while dishing out 11 assists, firmly establishing himself as the franchise’s most prolific single-game playoff scorer in its nearly 80-year history.
This record-breaking performance occurred during a home game, where Brunson logged 39 minutes, shooting 13-for-27 from the floor. His achievement was especially significant as it came just after his 43-point effort in Game One had tied the record with the legendary Ewing. Brunson’s consistency and scoring prowess highlight his status as the Knicks’ top postseason contributor since Ewing’s era ended over two decades ago, with the exception of a brief period when Jeremy Lin captured attention.
Brunson’s Remarkable Playoff Stats Amid Knicks’ Challenges
At 28 years old, Brunson still has the potential to extend this playoff scoring record further as the series continues. Despite his individual brilliance, the Knicks have struggled to convert his efforts into team success. The Knicks lost Game Two, falling into an 0-2 series deficit against the Pacers. Both losses came on their home court, deepening the challenge for New York as they attempt to advance to their first NBA Finals in 26 years.
The Knicks’ defeat in Game Two was less dramatic than the heartbreaking collapse in Game One but remains a tough setback, particularly because the Pacers have now defeated them twice in recent high-stakes playoff encounters. Last year, Indiana also eliminated New York in a seven-game Conference Semi-Finals series, making their postseason matchup a recurring hurdle for the Knicks.
Team Struggles Persist Despite Brunson’s Leadership
New York’s enduring quest for an NBA Finals appearance faces mounting pressure as time runs short, with Brunson carrying much of the offensive load. Throughout the current postseason, he has averaged 30.4 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game, demonstrating efficiency by shooting nearly 46% from the field and 83% from the free throw line. His role as the Knicks’ primary playmaker demands significant responsibility, even though occasional moments of excessive individual play have raised questions about balancing team involvement.
The Pacers’ defense has notably improved, coupled with strong offensive performances from Tyrese Haliburton, who is playing MVP-level basketball, and Aaron Nesmith, whose Game One heroics proved crucial. This combination has allowed Indiana to confidentally challenge the Knicks on their home floor. For New York, the need for cohesive team responses that extend beyond Brunson’s scoring has become increasingly urgent.
Implications for the Knicks’ Playoff Journey and What Lies Ahead
Jalen Brunson’s record-breaking achievement cements his place in Knicks history, symbolizing a bright individual milestone amid a team striving to regain postseason prominence. However, the Knicks’ inability to capitalize on his performances so far suggests that further strategic adjustments and squad contributions are essential to advance. With the Eastern Conference Finals underway and the series leaning in favor of the Pacers, the Knicks face the critical task of rallying as a unit to overcome their repeated playoff adversaries and keep their championship aspirations alive.