The Philadelphia 76ers are heading into Game 2 against the New York Knicks with a clear game plan—and it involves one of the most unconventional matchups in the NBA: Jalen Brunson's "big head."

After a dominant 137-98 victory in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, Brunson left the Sixers scrambling for answers. The Knicks star guard poured in 35 points on 12-of-18 shooting, including 3-of-6 from beyond the arc, all in just 31 minutes at Madison Square Garden. But it wasn't just his scoring that had the Sixers talking—it was his presence, both physical and mental.

"I just know he has a big head," Sixers guard Kelly Oubre Jr. deadpanned after Tuesday's film session. "He's got the braids. He's a very smart, tactical player, so he uses all that to his advantage. Hey, I'll be there. He can whip me with his braids all he wants, but he's not getting free like that."

The lighthearted jab belies a serious challenge. Philadelphia's defense struggled mightily to contain Brunson, especially in the pick-and-roll. The Knicks repeatedly targeted Sixers center Joel Embiid, using screens to create mismatches and open looks for their star guard. Brunson shot 3-of-4 against Embiid, including two 3-pointers, and added a crafty isolation jumper that left the 7-foot center spinning in circles.

Rookie guard VJ Edgecombe, who was Brunson's primary defender for much of the game, saw the Knicks' strategy firsthand. "They set high screens on whoever [Embiid was] guarding," Edgecombe said. The result? Brunson scored nine points on 4-of-7 shooting when Edgecombe was the closest defender, according to NBA tracking data.

For a player known for his basketball IQ and relentless work ethic, Brunson's big head—literally and figuratively—is just another tool in his arsenal. "Most importantly, the ball was going in, and I got in a rhythm," Brunson said after Game 1. "My teammates did a good job with setting screens and getting me open."

Now, it's up to the Sixers to put their heads together and find a way to slow him down. Oubre acknowledged the challenge ahead: "He's a great player. We've played against him plenty of times. We have to make the adjustments that we see on film, but kudos to him. He came out and started the series and did what they had to do at home. It's up to us to respond."

For fans and players alike, this series is shaping up to be a battle of wits, skill, and maybe even a few braids. Game 2 promises to be a must-watch as the Sixers look to even the score.