PHILADELPHIA — Knicks coach Mike Brown referenced “Peanuts” to highlight Jalen Brunson’s impact during a recent game.
The Knicks defeated the 76ers 108-94 in Game 3 at Xfinity Mobile Arena, overcoming a 12-point deficit in the first quarter. Brunson had a rough start, with 0 for 4 attempts initially, but managed to end the first quarter with 2 for 8. Without OG Anunoby, it seemed like the 76ers might advance, but Brown remained unfazed.
Brunson, he said, provides a safety net. “What’s the name of the Snoopy character? Linus? He has a blanket, right? Well, I’m Linus, and Jalen is my blanket,” Brown explained. “He calms me during the game. That’s what great players do—they ease the tension and simplify the game for others.”
After the Knicks established a solid lead, Brunson managed to score 10 points in the second quarter, following that up with nine points each in the third and fourth quarters. He finished the night with a game-high 33 points on 11-of-22 shooting, remarkably hitting 9 of 14 shots after the first quarter.
In addition to his scoring, he dished out 9 assists, showcasing a strong performance overall.
With Anunoby struggling to contribute and Karl-Anthony Towns facing foul issues, Brunson stepped up significantly offensively.
The 76ers still haven’t figured out how to contain him. Tracking statistics reveal that V.J. Edgecomb was assigned as the primary defender, and Brunson shot 5-for-8 against him. Kelly Oubre also took a turn guarding Brunson, who went 4-for-5 against him.
At one point, Oubre attempted to mock Brunson for his large head, a comment that didn’t seem to help.
“His usage rate is extremely high,” Oubre acknowledged. “It’s difficult for both VJ and me to keep up with him all over the court. JB is a great player, and we need to figure out how to defend him effectively.”
Despite various attempts—including double-teaming—nothing seemed to slow Brunson down once he found his rhythm.
