By Miguel Mike Medina
The New York Knicks wanted the split against a short-handed Miami Heat team. Jimmy Butler did not play due to a right ankle sprain he suffered in Game 1. If you’re in Miami, you should return to Miami feeling confident because the Knicks were in trouble with this Miami Heat team in Game 2 on Tuesday. Knicks did go on a 12-3 run in the 4th quarter, and momentum shifted their way. Knicks won this game 111-105, and they got the split against the No. 8 seed Miami Heat.
Jalen Brunson led the Knicks’ with 30 points, five rebounds, two assists, and two steals while hitting 10 of 19 field-goal attempts, including six of 10 from 3-point distance. He’s not 100% healthy, but he is willing to do what it takes to help the Knicks win. Julius Randle returned after missing Game 1 due to an ankle sprain. He’s been battling with injuries, and things haven’t been going so smoothly for him, but he redeemed himself and had a good night with 25 points, 12 rebounds, and eight assists. RJ Barrett finished with 24 while hitting five of nine 3-point attempts. All three men combined for 79 of the team’s 111 points. Josh Hart hit a big three-pointer in the 4th quarter to make it 104-100.
Without Jimmy Butler and Tyler Herro on the lineup, Miami used their three-point shooting to their advantage. Caleb Martin led the Heat with 22 points while knocking down 4 of his eight threes and eight rebounds. Gabe Vincent added 21 points. Miami knows how to develop players. Miami Heat culture is different than many organizations.
The series shifts back to Miami. One of my favorite cities in the world, and I love South Beach and Little Havana. Game 3 will be on Saturday. This is good for Jimmy Butler because he will rest for four days, which should help him recover from his ankle injury. Tyler Herro won’t be back in this series as he is still healing from his wrist injury.
Several big names were in the building on Tuesday night, such as former Knick players John Starks, Carmelo Anthony, Amare Stoudamire, new Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers and Academy Award-winning filmmaker and writer Spike Lee.