Isaac Okoro: Cavaliers need to let refs know about Jalen Brunson’s ‘antics’ to draw foul calls
Cavs #Cavs
Jalen Brunson only got to the free throw line for four foul shot attempts in a game one win over the Cavaliers, but Cleveland’s Isaac Okoro says his group needs to make the officials aware of the point guard’s “antics” when he has the ball.
“Just being disciplined, talking to the refs to try to let them know some of the antics he might do,” Okoro told reporters on Monday. “Staying down on pump fakes, trying to use my size and my length just to try to deter shots and passes.”
What “antics” was Brunson performing during his 27-point night in Saturday’s game one?
“Nodding your head back, falling on the ground when not a lot of physicality is used on you. Just little things to help you get fouls and get to the free-throw line,” Okoro said. “In today’s game, a lot of players do that to get to the free-throw line. As a defender, you have to adjust to that and be smart.”
Brunson has tormented Cleveland of late, pouring in 48 points when the teams met for the final time in the regular season, and erupted for 21 points in the second half of Saturday’s win, taking over when New York needed it most. With Josh Hart doubtful for game two on Tuesday, Brunson will need to have another big game if the Knicks want to take a commanding 2-0 series lead back to MSG.
Follow Ryan Chichester on Twitter: @ryanchichester1
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