The New York Knicks have encountered difficulties against the Indiana Pacers in the conference finals, yet they remain very much in contention. Despite losing the first two games of the series, the matches have been extremely close—one even extending into overtime—which demonstrates that the Knicks hold a real chance at winning.
Leading into the crucial third game on Sunday, May 25, Knicks’ leader Jalen Brunson shared a concise but powerful message to reassure fans worried about their 0-2 deficit. This message reflected the team’s confident mindset amid mounting playoff pressure.
Jalen Brunson Expresses the Team’s Determined Mentality
Jalen Brunson carries a heavy load as the Knicks’ captain and key player, and despite the team’s recent setbacks, his individual performance has remained strong. In Game 2, Brunson scored 36 points, handed out 11 assists, and played 39 minutes, shooting efficiently with 13-of-27 from the field and 5-of-12 on three-pointers. Across the two games, he has totaled 79 points and 16 assists, stepping up in a crucial role.
Before Game 3, Brunson stated in a video shared by SNY, “We’re a confident group.” He then delivered a brief but defiant four-word message that highlighted the team’s fighting spirit:
“We just know that our back’s against the wall. We’ve just got to go out there and go out swinging.”
Brunson acknowledged the need for improved effort if the Knicks want to reverse their fortunes against Indiana:
“Everything we need to do has to be better,”
he said.
“Our next game, our most important game, we’ve just got to go out there and fight.”
Positive Indicators Point to Potential Knicks Comeback
Although trailing 2-0 and heading into an away game on Sunday, there are reasons for hope. Sports analyst Scott Polacek of Bleacher Report highlights the Knicks’ strong road performance this postseason, which may give them an edge despite the current series deficit.
If there is a silver lining for Brunson and the Knicks, it is their performance on the road in the playoffs to this point,
Polacek wrote.
New York won all three contests away from home in its first-round series against the Detroit Pistons and then won two of the three on the road in the second round against the Boston Celtics.
Polacek points out that the Knicks overcame the Pistons largely due to their victories in Detroit, including the series-clinching game.
He also referenced the Pacers’ recent history, noting that they won the first two games on the road against the Cleveland Cavaliers during their second-round matchup but eventually lost the third game at home. Polacek explains:
“Indiana also won the first two games on the road against the Cleveland Cavaliers in the second round but lost Game 3 on its home floor,”
he added.
“While the Pacers turned things around and won the series in five, the Knicks may be better positioned to take advantage of such a situation if they can steal one on the road in Sunday’s matchup.”
Following a strong rebound by the Timberwolves against the Thunder on Saturday, May 24, fans are eager to see if the Knicks can similarly respond with renewed energy.
Brunson’s Message Reflects the Knicks’ Unyielding Playoff Spirit
Jalen Brunson’s succinct, confident statement—and his commitment to leading a “confident group”—underscores the Knicks’ determination to stay competitive under pressure. His leadership during these tightly contested games, paired with the team’s established ability to win on the road, creates optimism about their chances of shifting momentum.
Sunday’s game represents a critical opportunity for the Knicks to prove their resilience and deepen their playoff run. Successfully securing a win in Indiana would not only level the series but also reaffirm the team’s belief in overcoming adversity.