The Knicks’ 123-112 Game 1 hero and Zero won the Pistons on Saturday:
Hero: Jalen Brunson
After a rough start, he changed his sneakers and returned as the superstar the Knicks have become accustomed to. After starting 14-3 from the field, Branson made nine of his next 13 shots, finishing with a game-high 34 points and eight assists.
Zero: Mikal Bridge
He disappeared due to the long stretches of the game, and many were concerned about him entering the playoffs. He finished with just eight points and was the worst minus-16 team. The Knicks were lucky to overcome his no-show.
Unsung Hero: Cam Payne
Even in questions that were postseason rotation, he scored 11 of 14 points in the fourth quarter. His energy was also contagious to his teammates.
Key Statistics
Knicks’ advantages at 62-46 paint points. The Knicks bullied there for everything that was made about how tough the piston was. Many of them came from Karl Antony Towns, who finished with 23 points.
Quote
“I think he grabbed the cape.”
– Tom Thibodeau about what’s been odd for Branson
