Knicks fail to close out the game and the series, allowing the win to slip through their fingers

The Knicks came tantalizingly close to clinching the series against the Sixers in Game 5 but ultimately fell short in overtime, 106-112. It was a heart-wrenching loss for Knicks fans, who had hoped to see their team advance to the second round with a victory on their home court.

Jalen Brunson led the charge for the Knicks with an impressive 40-point performance, showcasing his scoring prowess throughout the game. Alongside him, Josh Hart contributed 18 points and 9 rebounds, while OG Anunoby added 17 points to the mix.

With just 25.1 seconds remaining on the clock and the Knicks leading 96-90, it seemed victory was within reach. However, Tyrese Maxey had other plans, sinking a remarkable 25-foot three-pointer while drawing a foul from Mitchell Robinson. Maxey’s clutch shot and subsequent free throw narrowed the Knicks’ lead to just two points, setting the stage for a nail-biting finish.

In a twist of fate, Josh Hart was fouled and sent to the free-throw line, but a missed shot gave Maxey the opportunity to tie the game with a jaw-dropping 34-foot shot from the logo. The MSG crowd fell silent as the game headed into overtime, stunned by the sudden turn of events.

Despite Brunson’s valiant efforts, scoring the first 5 points in overtime, the Knicks were outscored 15-9 by the Sixers, who capitalized on a 9-0 run to secure the victory. It was a bitter pill to swallow for Knicks fans, who had hoped to see their team close out the series at home.

Adding to the frustration, the NBA later ruled that Maxey had traveled before his game-tying shot, casting a shadow of controversy over the outcome. The Knicks also played without Bojan Bogdanovic, who was sidelined with an ankle injury sustained in Game 4.

Despite his sensitive ankle, Mitchell Robinson took to the court and successfully defended Joel Embiid, limiting the Sixers’ star player’s scoring opportunities and fouls drawn. Still, Embiid finished with 19 points, 16 rebounds, 10 assists, and 5 blocks, but his performance fell short of his usual dominance.

Meanwhile, Tyrese Maxey stole the show for the Sixers with a staggering 46-point performance, including 7 three-pointers, leading his team to victory and extending the series to Game 6 in Philadelphia. The Knicks will have to regroup and refocus as they aim to bounce back and secure the series win on enemy territory.

Up-next: Knicks will try to finish the Sixers tonight in Philly. Game 6 starts at 9:00 pm