The New York Knicks hold a 2-0 lead over the San Antonio Spurs in the NBA Finals. Karl-Anthony Towns currently leads the race for Finals MVP based on his defensive impact and overall play.
Karl-Anthony Towns has posted strong numbers through the first two games. He recorded 18 points and 12 rebounds in Game 1, followed by 21 points and 13 rebounds in Game 2. His defense against Victor Wembanyama has limited the Spurs star's efficiency inside the paint. Jalen Brunson sits close behind in the MVP discussion. Brunson scored 30 points in Game 1 and added 20 points with five steals in Game 2. His clutch plays in the fourth quarters of both games have kept New York ahead. Victor Wembanyama has averaged 27.5 points and 10.5 rebounds but has struggled with shot selection and clutch execution. The Spurs trail and face a must-win Game 3 on Monday at Madison Square Garden. No team has overcome a 3-0 deficit in NBA Finals history. The Knicks have not lost a playoff game in six weeks.