Ex-Maverick Jalen Brunson hits game-winner to advance Knicks in NBA Playoffs

Although the Dallas Mavericks aren't in the playoffs, as they missed it entirely after losing in the Play-In Tournament, many former Mavericks are still playing as we start to reach the end of the first round. And one particular former pushed his team forward with a bang.

Jalen Brunson and the New York Knicks took down the Detroit Pistons in an exciting Game 6 victory, with the Knicks coming out with a 116-113 win. New York dominated most of the second half, but the Pistons went on a 13-0 run in the middle of the fourth to take the lead. But with the game on the line, the Knicks went to Brunson, and the Clutch Player of the Year delivered again.

May 1, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson (11) celebrates his three point basket in the fourth quarter against the Detroit Pistons during game six of first round for the 2024 NBA Playoffs at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images | Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images

Brunson lost elite defender Ausar Thompson with a nasty crossover, then hit the three with 4.3 seconds remaining to put the Knicks ahead. The Knicks would hold on defense and advance to the Eastern Conference Semifinals where the Boston Celtics await.

JALEN BRUNSON FROM 3 TO WIN IT FOR THE KNICKS 🔥🔥🔥

KNICKS ARE ADVANCING TO EASTERN CONFERENCE SEMIS!!!#NBAPlayoffs presented by Google pic.twitter.com/sGmjcWhNdj
— NBA (@NBA) May 2, 2025

Brunson, who was dealing with a sore ankle, lit up the nets for 40 points on 15/33 shooting this game, as well as dishing out 7 assists. Boston will be a tough matchup for the Knicks, especially if Jrue Holiday returns and is healthy, but Brunson is good enough to give the Knicks a chance.

Stick with MavericksGameday for more FREE coverage of the Dallas Mavericks throughout the offseason

Follow MavericksGameday on Twitter and Austin Veazey on Twitter

More Dallas Mavericks News

Mark Cuban fires back at Mavericks' Nico Harrison after Dirk Nowitzki disrespect

Mavericks receive positive Kyrie Irving injury update

NBA analyst takes vicious shot at Mavericks’ Nico Harrison

Full transcript from Mavericks GM Nico Harrison's polarizing secret media conference