There are no guarantees. The Knicks aren’t out of the first round yet. Crazy things happen this time of year, injuries and upsets and unexpected results.
But after Jalen Brunson’s heroic effort in Philadelphia on Sunday afternoon, the superstar guard — yes, that title now fits — going for a franchise playoff record 47 points, the path is clear.
Tom Thibodeau’s Knicks can think about reaching the Eastern Conference finals for the first time since 2000. After beating the 76ers in Philadelphia, 97-92, they now have three chances to send Joel Embiid and the 76ers home, starting Tuesday night at the Garden, and it appears neither team they may face has the look of a juggernaut.
Already trailing 2-1 in the opening round series, Milwaukee was without Giannis Antetokounmpo (left calf) and Damian Lillard (Achilles tendon grade 1 strain) for the Bucks’ 126-113 Game 4 loss Sunday night to the Pacers, setting the Knicks up as major favorites should they and Indiana both advance. Had the Bucks been healthy, and gotten past the Pacers as most expected, the Knicks would’ve still had home court advantage. But Milwaukee would’ve been the betting favorite, led by Antetokounmpo, the two-time MVP who has yet to play in the postseason.