Jalen Brunson Expects Stronger Spurs Response as NBA Finals Shift to MSG

The New York Knicks are halfway to an NBA championship, but Jalen Brunson is making sure nobody inside the organization believes the job is finished. After securing two hard-fought road victories against the San Antonio Spurs, the Knicks return home with a commanding 2-0 lead in the 2026 NBA Finals.

New York’s latest victory was anything but comfortable. The Knicks escaped with a 105-104 win in Game 2 after surviving a furious Spurs comeback that nearly erased everything they had built throughout the evening. The narrow margin served as a reminder that the series remains highly competitive despite the standings.

For Brunson, the first two games have reinforced his respect for San Antonio rather than diminished it. The Knicks star understands that championship-caliber teams rarely fade quietly, especially one that battled its way through a difficult Western Conference playoff bracket to reach the Finals.

As Madison Square Garden prepares to host its first NBA Finals game of the series, Brunson’s message is simple: expect a stronger challenge. While the Knicks have placed themselves in an enviable position, their leader believes the Spurs still have more to offer and that New York must be prepared for a heightened level of intensity.

1. Respect for a Dangerous Opponent

One reason Brunson remains cautious is the resilience San Antonio has displayed throughout the postseason. The Spurs have repeatedly shown the ability to respond when facing adversity, making them a dangerous opponent regardless of the series score. Following Game 2, Brunson openly acknowledged that he expects another gear from the young Spurs roster. His comments reflected the respect New York has developed for a team that has consistently found ways to compete even when facing difficult circumstances. That respect is rooted in what the Knicks witnessed firsthand during the fourth quarter on Friday night. San Antonio unleashed a 14-0 scoring run that completely shifted the momentum of the game and temporarily put New York on the defensive. The comeback demonstrated how quickly the Spurs can change the complexion of a contest. Even after trailing by double digits, they remained aggressive, disciplined, and confident enough to challenge a Knicks team that had controlled much of the evening. Those moments reinforced Brunson’s belief that the series is far from settled.

2. Brunson Delivers When It Matters Most

Although Brunson’s shooting performance in Game 2 fell below his usual standards, his overall impact on the game remained substantial. The All-NBA guard struggled with efficiency, connecting on just seven of his 25 field-goal attempts, but he found other ways to influence the outcome. Rather than allowing missed shots to affect his confidence, Brunson continued to direct the offense and contribute defensively. His leadership became especially important during the game’s closing moments when every possession carried significant weight. Brunson finished with 20 points and five steals, showcasing the versatility that has defined his postseason run. While much attention focused on his scoring, his defensive effort proved equally valuable in helping the Knicks secure a second consecutive road victory. The defining sequence came late in the fourth quarter. A crucial defensive play involving Victor Wembanyama helped create the opportunity that ultimately led to Brunson’s game-winning free throw. It was another example of his ability to deliver in pressure-filled situations, even on nights when his shooting touch is inconsistent.

3. Knicks Chase History but Stay Focused

The Knicks now find themselves in a position that few teams have enjoyed in NBA Finals history. By winning the first two games on the road, New York has taken firm control of the championship series and moved within two victories of ending a title drought that stretches back to 1973. Much of that success has come from the team’s balanced approach. Karl-Anthony Towns continued his outstanding Finals performance in Game 2, recording 21 points and 13 rebounds while providing a steady presence in the paint. His production has helped ease the burden on Brunson and strengthened New York’s overall attack. Yet the Knicks understand that reaching the brink of a championship is not the same as securing one. The Spurs still feature elite talent led by Victor Wembanyama, who recorded 29 points, nine rebounds, and four blocks in Game 2. De’Aaron Fox also remained a significant offensive threat throughout the contest. That reality is why Brunson continues to preach focus and preparation. Madison Square Garden will provide an emotional atmosphere and a tremendous opportunity for the Knicks, but complacency could quickly erase their advantage. New York knows the Spurs will arrive desperate to avoid a 3-0 deficit, and Brunson believes matching that urgency for the full 48 minutes will be essential if the Knicks hope to maintain control of the series.