ESPN’s Scott Van Pelt appears to have drawn a line around New York Knicks star Jalen Brunson.
Heading into Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals, the New York Knicks were on the verge of elimination as they faced a 3-1 deficit against the Indiana Pacers.
However, the Knicks left with a much needed 111-94 Game 5 victory for the Pacers at Madison Square Garden.
As expected, star guard Jaylen Branson led the team’s fees. Speaking of Branson, the Knicks Star’s post-game interview was crashed by double NBA champion JR Smith.
Fans saw Smith play for five different teams during his 16-year stint in the NBA. Smith retired in 2020 as a double NBA champion.
Although he has never won the ring with the Knicks, the former NBA guard appears to have a lot of love for the organization.
As a result, it is rare to see Smith support the Knicks on the sidelines all year round. JR was in the building during the Knicks’ Game 5 victory at ECF.
After the contest, Smith crashed a post-game interview with Branson when he left Branson’s two NBA Championship rings on his shoulder while showing off.
“You’ve got Ring Fever now,” Smith said, rubbing the championship ring on Branson’s shoulder.
It felt like the former NBA guard was blessing to Branson, completing his comeback and winning the 2025 NBA Championship. However, ESPN’s Scott Van Pelt responded differently to the gestures.
Smith’s gesture was for Branson and the Knicks, but Vanpelt doesn’t seem to like the timing. After all, Smith intervened during the post-match interview.
“Who’s abusing your shoulder? Van Pelt said he left you alone,” ESPN analysts said.
Even Branson looked troubling in the video when he continued his interview after a small intercept by Smith.
As for Branson’s performance, he contributed 32 points, five rebounds and five assists, shooting 18-12 from the field with 34 minutes of playing time.