Home NBA Brunson’s hot hands, Randle’s return propelled Knicks to split series over Heat

Brunson’s hot hands, Randle’s return propelled Knicks to split series over Heat

The New York Knicks evened up their second-round set against the Miami Heat courtesy of a 111-105 Game 2 victory on Tuesday.

Jalen Brunson caught fire from distance, registering 30 points and five boards while shooting 6-of-10 from the three-point distance. Julius Randle, who made his return to the club after missing the series opener due to his ankle issues, churned 25 points, 12 boards, and eight assists in 37 minutes.

RJ Barrett also came up huge with his 24 points, while super sub-man Josh Hart had 14 points, 11 rebounds, and nine assists.

With Miami topman Jimmy Butler out because of an ankle sprain, New York capitalized on his absence and went on to escape the Heat after being down by six midway through the final frame, with Brunson and Hart playing their heroic roles.

As Brunson dropped 30, it was no coincidence that he connected his name to the franchise great Carmelo Anthony, who made an appearance in the Madison Square Garden to support New York in Game 2. The rising star becomes the first Knick since the future Hall of Famer to drop 30 points in a postseason game (h/t ESPN Stats & Info).

Caleb Martin had 22 points, while Gabe Vincent contributed 21 on a losing effort for the Heat. 

The Eastern Conference Semis will now shift to South Beach, with Miami set to host Game 3 on Saturday.

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