Knicks Near NBA Finals with Win over Cavaliers

The New York Knicks are on the cusp of their first NBA Finals appearance since 1999. They defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers 121-108 on Saturday night, moving within a game of clinching the Eastern Conference Finals.

Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 30 points, while Mikal Bridges contributed 22 points. Fans were vocal, chanting “Knicks in four!” as the game concluded. The Knicks have won ten straight games during this postseason, a feat achieved by only seven teams in NBA history. The last team to accomplish this was the Boston Celtics, who won the 2024 title.

New York’s dominance is evident as most of their victories have been by double digits, with an average margin of 22.5 points. Karl Anthony-Towns, who scored 13 points, emphasized the team’s focus on execution for the next game. OG Anunoby added 21 points, helping the Knicks maintain control throughout the game. They were effective from the field, making 55.8% of their shots, including 11 three-pointers. From the foul line, they scored 24 of 27.

For Cleveland, Evan Mobley scored 24 points, Donovan Mitchell 23, and James Harden 19. Despite a star-studded audience including Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, the Cavaliers struggled, particularly with three-pointers, making only 12 of 41. Coach Kenny Atkinson acknowledged the challenge of matching New York’s physicality and energy.

The Knicks held a steady lead, ending the third quarter 91-82. In a key stretch during the fourth quarter, Landry Shamet hit three consecutive three-pointers, pushing the lead to 105-94. Knicks coach Mike Brown praised his team’s contributions and emphasized playing fast to avoid Cleveland’s set defense. New York quickly led 9-1 early, shooting 12 of 17 in the first quarter to lead 37-27 after 12 minutes. Cleveland managed to tie the score during the second quarter, but the Knicks countered and led 60-54 at halftime. Brunson’s performance, especially during an 8-1 run in the third quarter, helped extend the lead. Landry Shamet noted the “next-man-up mentality” offered support in overcoming Cleveland’s efforts.