NEW YORK—The New York Knicks defeated the Philadelphia 76ers 108-105 in a hard-fought Game 2 at Madison Square Garden, evening the Eastern Conference semifinals. Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 34 points, eight assists and three steals, hitting a crucial step-back jumper with 28 seconds remaining to seal the win. Tyrese Maxey countered for the 76ers, pouring in 32 points, seven assists and two steals on 12-of-23 shooting from the field. This guard duel defined the first half, with both players scoring over 20 points before halftime.
This victory ties the series at one game apiece, shifting momentum back to New York before the series moves to Philadelphia. The Knicks shot 48 percent from the field as a team, a significant improvement over their 39 percent performance in Game 1. New York also limited the 76ers to just 29 percent shooting from three-point range. The 76ers struggled from the free-throw line, converting only 16 of 24 attempts, a 67 percent clip that cost them valuable points in a contest decided by three.
Maxey's relentless scoring in a high-stakes playoff game directly impacts his market value as he approaches restricted free agency this offseason. He is eligible for a five-year supermax extension starting at approximately $35 million in its first year, potentially totaling $205 million over the life of the deal. Performances like tonight, especially against another elite guard, solidify his position as a cornerstone player. The 76ers face a critical decision on Maxey, particularly with Joel Embiid's $51 million salary for next season and Tobias Harris's expiring $39 million contract creating salary cap questions.
Brunson's current four-year, $104 million contract, signed in 2022, increasingly looks like one of the league's best bargains. His sustained high-level performance, averaging 31 points and seven assists this postseason, provides the Knicks with significant financial flexibility. New York can consider future moves for a third star without immediately hitting the repeater tax. The team is currently $18 million under the luxury tax threshold for this season, offering crucial room for strategic roster enhancements and player retention. This series is not just about wins and losses; it is about valuation.
