The action returned to the Knicks' offense.
Chen Xi caught the ball in the backcourt, slowly dribbled across half court, then reached the top of the key and handed it off to Drummond, who had stepped up. He immediately moved to the right to set a screen for Hart, who was coming up, forming a staggered screen with Drummond, who was also presenting for a handoff behind him.
The move did a great job of confusing the Suns' defense.
Haliburton, chasing Hart, immediately tried to fight past Chen Xi and catch up.
Booker, who was guarding Chen Xi, was intimidated by Chen Xi's presence and didn't dare switch right away.
At that moment, Hart used Chen Xi's screen to get to Drummond, then suddenly changed direction. He spun between Chen Xi and Drummond and strode into the paint.
Now Booker had no choice but to switch.
After all, he couldn't just watch Hart stroll into the paint that easily...
And that switch naturally led to trouble.
Chen Xi turned without hesitation and cut back, then took the ball from Drummond in another handoff. With both Haliburton and Ayton focused on him defensively, he moved toward the top of the key.
Once there, he simply lofted a pass into the paint.
Drummond rolled to the basket and seized the opportunity. After catching the ball, he laid it in with ease to finish the play.
It wasn't a complicated play, but it was deceptive enough to help the Knicks pick up another two points.
The broadcast camera turned to Thibodeau on the sidelines.
The old man was expressionless, hands in his pockets, exuding the presence of a legendary coach to the fullest.
But in truth, only the Knicks knew.
The play Drummond and the others had just run had nothing to do