Jalen Brunson candidly discusses the Knicks' tactic for Game 4 following their defeating loss
Game 3 Downer for the Knicks, but They Ain't Giving Up
You'd think the NY Knicks would be basking in glory after winning the first two games of their second round series against the Boston Celtics, but Game 3 was a different story. With a chance to go up 3-0, the guys in blue and orange stumbled and fell flat in a 115-93 loss to Jayson Tatum and his gang [1][2].
Jalen Brunson, who's been on fire in the playoffs, acknowledged the defeat and emphasized that they need to study Game 3's film to make the necessary adjustments for Game 4. "We've got to figure out what we did wrong and get ready to fight on Monday," he said [1].
The game seemed decided at halftime as Boston got off to a hot start and easily scored over 35 points in the first two quarters. The Knicks could only manage to claw back three points off Boston's lead in the second half. Brunson kept up his stellar performance, leading the team with 27 points, but his shooting percentage dipped below 50%, and he wasn't as effective as usual [3].
Compared to the Knicks, the Celtics shot much better, with Tatum landing 40% of his shots and sinking five of nine three-pointers [3]. Boston's efficiency was a significant factor in their victory, making Game 4 a must-win for the Knicks if they want to keep their Eastern Conference Finals dreams alive.
Here are some strategies the Knicks might consider to level the playing field:
- Tighten Up on Three-Point Defense:
- In the first two games, the Celtics struggled from beyond the arc, but they found their groove in Game 3, hitting 20 out of 40 attempts [3]. The Knicks need to step up their defensive game to minimize Boston's three-point opportunities.
- Better Fourth-Quarter Execution:
- In the first two games, the Knicks outscored the Celtics in the fourth quarter to secure the win. In Game 3, things didn't go so well [1][4]. The Knicks have to keep their intensity high and execute better in the clutch moments, perhaps by creating more inside opportunities and drawing fouls.
- Manage the Contributions of Key Players:
- Karl-Anthony Towns and Josh Hart, two of the Knicks' key players, weren't as effective in Game 3 [3]. Making sure they get involved early and often can help stabilize the team's offense and create more scoring opportunities.
- Secure Rebounds:
- The Knicks' advantage in limiting second-chance opportunities for the Celtics in the first two games was a significant factor in their success [4]. They need to maintain their rebounding game to deny the Celtics any momentum through second-chance points.
- Adjust Jalen Brunson's Role:
- Brunson is a vital cog in the Knicks' offense, but his crucial plays were lacking in Game 3. The Knicks might try to involve him more prominently in crunch time to allow for better ball movement and opportunities for other players [4].
By implementing these strategies, the Knicks can hope to bounce back and keep their series lead alive. So, strap in, Knicks fans – Game 4 is shaping up to be a thriller!
Sources:
[1] "Knicks' film study key after Game 3 loss to Celtics." Yahoo Sports
[2] "New York Knicks lose Game 3 to Boston Celtics." ESPN
[3] "Celtics' Jayson Tatum enjoys third win in row over RJ Barrett." Celtics Wire
[4] "New York Knicks Struggle to Defend the Celtics' Three-Point Shooting." The Spun
[5] "Knicks vs Celtics Game 3 Recap: Offense Halts, Loss Opens Series." The Knicks Wall
[6] "Celtics set playoff record for missed three-pointers in first two games." Sportskeeda
- Jalen Brunson emphasized the importance of studying Game 3's film, as the Knicks need to make amendments before their return for Game 4.
- The Knicks will aim to tighten up their three-point defense in Game 4, following the Celtics' success from beyond the arc in Game 3.
- With better fourth-quarter execution, the Knicks can potentially reverse their fate, as they outscored the Celtics in the fourth quarter in the first two games.
- The Knicks will seek to manage the contributions of key players like Karl-Anthomas Towns and Josh Hart, who struggled in Game 3, to stabilize their offense.
