The New York Knicks are using their extended break before the Eastern Conference Finals to recover while maintaining their competitive rhythm, according to star guard Jalen Brunson.
After sweeping the Philadelphia 76ers in the second round, the Knicks advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in more than two decades. New York is now waiting to face either the Cleveland Cavaliers or Detroit Pistons, whose semifinal series remains ongoing.
Brunson spoke on Wednesday about how the Knicks are balancing rest with preparation during the layoff. The All-Star guard said the team is focused on staying sharp while continuing to prepare for two possible opponents.
“I think we have our plan,” Brunson said when asked about the team’s approach. “Obviously, utilize rest, but then when we’re in the gym, no, we’re doing everything we have to do to stay in rhythm, stay having the edge that we need to have.”
The Knicks enter the conference finals after one of the strongest playoff stretches in franchise history. Brunson has led the way throughout the postseason while continuing to establish himself as the centerpiece of New York’s turnaround under head coach Mike Brown.
Jalen Brunson Says New York Knicks Are Staying Ready During Playoff Break
GettyNew York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson
Brunson said New York’s focus remains on internal preparation while the team waits to learn its opponent.
“Obviously, we have to prepare for one of these two teams,” Brunson said. “And then we’ve talked about the differences between the two and all that, but just focusing on what makes us the best thing we can be as well.”
The Knicks finished off Philadelphia with a 144-114 victory in Game 4 despite playing without forward OG Anunoby, who has been sidelined with a right hamstring strain. New York has now won at least 45 games in every season since Brunson joined the franchise in 2022.
Brunson has continued his strong postseason run by averaging 27.4 points, 6.1 assists, and 2.1 turnovers during the playoffs. According to team figures provided during the postseason, the Knicks have posted one of the highest point differentials through 10 playoff games in NBA history.
The 28-year-old guard has become the focal point of New York’s offense and leadership group. Teammates and coaches have consistently praised his work ethic and command under pressure.
Head coach Mike Brown recently compared Brunson’s impact on the team to a source of stability.
“What’s the dude’s name on Snoopy? Linus? He’s got a blanket,” Brown said. “I’m Linus, and Jalen is my blanket.”
Brown added, “He helps me relax throughout the course of a game. That’s what great players do.”
OG Anunoby Injury Update Gives New York Knicks Encouragement
GettyNew York Knicks forward Og Anunoby
While Brunson remains the centerpiece of New York’s playoff push, the Knicks are also monitoring the status of Anunoby ahead of the Eastern Conference Finals.
Brown said Wednesday that Anunoby participated in portions of practice.
“He practiced today in some aspects of it,” Brown said. “Some parts of practice.”
According to Stefan Bondy of the New York Post, Anunoby also completed individual work during Wednesday’s session as he recovers from a Grade 1 right hamstring strain suffered during Game 2 against Philadelphia.
The injury forced Anunoby to miss Games 3 and 4 of the series, though the Knicks still completed the sweep without him.
Anunoby has been one of New York’s most productive postseason players when healthy. Through eight playoff appearances, he has averaged 21.4 points, 7.5 rebounds, 1.9 steals and 1.1 blocks while shooting 61.9 percent from the field and 53.8 percent from 3-point range.
His possible return could become important depending on whether New York faces Cleveland or Detroit in the next round.
The Knicks have not yet announced a timetable for Anunoby’s full return, but Brunson made clear the team is staying focused during the wait.
“We’re doing everything we have to do,” Brunson said, “to stay in rhythm.”
Jalen Brunson Reveals Knicks’ Plan Ahead of Eastern Conference Finals