TITLE: Stingy Knicks Push 76ers to Brink with 108-94 Game 3 Victory
SLUG: knicks-take-3-0-lead-over-76ers
CONTENT:
The New York Knicks tightened the screws defensively once again, defeating the Philadelphia 76ers 108-94 in Game 3 to seize a commanding 3-0 lead in the Eastern Conference semifinal series.
New York permitted only 18 points in the fourth quarter on Thursday, mirroring the lockdown finish that limited Philadelphia to 12 points in the final period of Game 2.
“I think the most important thing is to rely on our defense,” guard Jalen Brunson said. “There are going to be times the ball is going through the hoop, and when it’s not, we have to control the things we can control.”
Bridges leads the defensive charge
With OG Anunoby sidelined, Mikal Bridges spearheaded the perimeter pressure, shadowing Sixers leading scorer Tyrese Maxey and limiting his early touches. Head coach Mike Brown praised the effort: “I’d be remiss if I didn’t point out the continued work Mikal is doing. He’s busting his behind.” Bridges is also averaging better than 20 points over his last four outings.
Balanced offense keeps pace
Brunson paced the Knicks with 33 points, nine of them in the final quarter after Philadelphia closed to single digits. Reserve guard Landry Shamet added 15 critical points, while Bridges chipped in offensively to complement his work on the other end.
“We all want to win,” Brunson said. “There are ups and downs; it’s all about how you keep moving in a positive direction.”
New York can clinch a place in the Eastern Conference finals with one more victory when the series resumes for Game 4.
Source: Hoops Wire
