The New York Knicks made a strong start to the NBA Finals by defeating the San Antonio Spurs 105-95 in Game 1.
The victory gave New York a 1-0 lead in the series. Moreover, the win extended the Knicks’ postseason winning streak to 12 games.
That run now matches the 1999 Spurs for the second-longest playoff winning streak in NBA history. Only the 2017 Golden State Warriors recorded a longer streak with 15 consecutive victories.
Jalen Brunson Leads the Way
Once again, Jalen Brunson proved why he is considered one of the league’s most reliable playoff performers.
Brunson finished with 30 points and took control during the final quarter. His scoring helped New York erase a double-digit deficit and secure the win.
However, the game did not begin smoothly for the Knicks star. During the first quarter, Brunson appeared to suffer a leg injury and was visibly uncomfortable. He briefly left for the locker room, raising concerns among fans.
Fortunately for New York, he returned soon after and continued playing. As the game progressed, he looked increasingly confident and showed no major signs of discomfort.
After the game, Brunson downplayed the injury concerns.
“I’ll be alright,” he said while discussing the knocks he received throughout the contest.
Knicks Fight Back After Slow Third Quarter
The Knicks faced a difficult stretch after halftime.
San Antonio built a 13-point lead in the third quarter and looked ready to take control of the game. Nevertheless, New York remained composed.
The team gradually chipped away at the deficit. As a result, momentum shifted back in the visitors’ favor heading into the final period.
Brunson then took over offensively, attacking the Spurs’ defense and delivering several crucial baskets when his team needed them most.
Supporting Cast Makes Important Contributions
While Brunson was the standout performer, New York received valuable support from several teammates.
Karl-Anthony Towns and OG Anunoby combined for 35 points.
Meanwhile, Landry Shamet added 13 points off the bench. Miles McBride contributed seven points in limited minutes, while José Alvarado provided important minutes during Brunson’s temporary absence.
Brunson credited the team’s chemistry for the comeback.
According to him, the players trust each other and consistently support one another during difficult moments.
Spurs Struggle From Three-Point Range
The Spurs relied heavily on three-point shooting, but the strategy did not produce the desired results.
San Antonio converted only 11 of its 43 attempts from beyond the arc. Consequently, the team struggled to maintain its offensive rhythm throughout the second half.
Despite having one of the league’s most unique talents in Victor Wembanyama, the Spurs could not find enough scoring support.
Wembanyama led San Antonio with 26 points and remained a major defensive presence around the basket. However, his efforts were not enough to stop the Knicks’ comeback.
De’Aaron Fox had a quiet outing, scoring only seven points. Therefore, much of the offensive burden fell on the Spurs’ younger players.
Knicks Take Early Control of Finals
Game 1 showed why the Knicks have been one of the most dangerous teams in the postseason.
They overcame injury concerns, erased a significant deficit, and delivered under pressure on the road. Furthermore, Brunson continued his remarkable playoff form with another decisive performance.
The Spurs still have time to respond in the series. However, New York now holds the advantage and will enter Game 2 full of confidence.