The New York Knicks defeated the visiting Philadelphia 76ers, 104-101, in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference First-Round Playoffs at Madison Square Garden on Monday evening.
The Knicks came up with a wild rally in the final minute to comeback and complete the home win. The 76ers got out to a strong start in the game and led, 25-18, after one quarter. The hosts brought a better effort in the second but could only trim it to a four-point game at the break. The Knicks kept the momentum going in the third and overtook the visitors for a five-point advantage heading into the final frame. The Knicks maintained an edge for most of the fourth, but the 76ers mounted an 7-0 run to grab a five-point lead with 47 seconds left. The hosts bounced back with a three from Jalen Brunson, followed by a steal and then another three by Donte DiVincenzo to take the lead and hold on for the 2-0 series lead.
Brunson led the Knicks with 24 points, eight rebounds and six assists, in 38 minutes. Josh Hart followed up with 21 points, 15 rebounds, three assists, two steals and two blocks, while DiVincenzo logged 19 points, four rebounds, three assists and two steals.
Meanwhile, Tyrese Maxey led the 76ers with 35 points, nine rebounds and 10 assists, in 44 minutes. Joel Embiid up with 34 points, 10 rebounds, six assists and a block, while Tobias Harris was the only other player to score in double digits for the Sixers, with 10 points, nine rebounds, three assists, a steal and a block.
Game 3 is scheduled for Thursday in Philly.
