NBA Finals news: New York Knicks edge San Antonio Spurs to take commanding 2-0 series lead
The New York Knicks moved within two wins of the NBA championship after edging the San Antonio Spurs 105-104 in Game 2 of the NBA Finals on Saturday, June 6, taking a commanding 2-0 series lead after winning both games on the road.
In a contest that remained in the balance until the final seconds, the Knicks once again found a way to prevail, with Jalen Brunson converting the decisive free throws after a costly late turnover from Spurs star Victor Wembanyama.
The victory extends New York's remarkable playoff run and places significant pressure on San Antonio ahead of Game 3.
Knicks continue finding answers
While Brunson finished with 20 points, five rebounds and six assists, the Knicks captain endured another difficult shooting night, converting just seven of his 25 field-goal attempts.
Instead, New York's balanced production once again proved decisive.
Karl-Anthony Towns continued his impressive Finals series with 21 points and 13 rebounds on an efficient 8-for-12 shooting display, while Mikal Bridges contributed 20 points, six rebounds and six assists.
OG Anunoby added 17 points as the Knicks produced enough offence to withstand several Spurs rallies.
"What a ballgame," Knicks coach Mike Brown said with awe.
Towns also praised the atmosphere surrounding the victory.
"New York City showed up," Towns said. "The fans showed up. The energy showed up. And we found a way to get it done."
Wembanyama shines before costly mistake
Wembanyama appeared poised to force overtime after producing one of his best performances of the Finals.
The Spurs star finished with 29 points and nine rebounds on 11-for-21 shooting, while De'Aaron Fox responded from his Game 1 struggles with 20 points and five assists.
Devin Vassell added 14 points and nine rebounds, Stephon Castle registered 14 points, four rebounds and four assists, and Dylan Harper once again impressed off the bench with 15 points.
However, the defining moment arrived in the final seven seconds.
With the game tied at 104-104 and overtime seemingly within reach, Wembanyama attempted a pass towards Castle on the wing from inside his own half.
Castle was not expecting the ball, resulting in a turnover that handed New York one final opportunity.
The Knicks capitalised, drawing a foul and sending Brunson to the free-throw line, where he converted the game-winning points.
"We can't change the past," Wembanyama said. "We're already thinking about Game 3."
Mountain to climb for Spurs
The Spurs now face a daunting challenge as the series shifts to New York.
Despite receiving improved contributions from Fox, Vassell and their supporting cast, San Antonio finds itself trailing 2-0 after dropping both home games.
The Knicks, meanwhile, continue to find different ways to win and have now strengthened their grip on the NBA Finals heading into Game 3 at Madison Square Garden.
