New York Knicks Secure First Win in Eastern Conference Finals Against Cleveland Cavaliers

• May 20, 2026 | 07:07
• 84
• 0

The New York Knicks orchestrated a historic comeback from a 22-point deficit in the final quarter to defeat the Cleveland Cavaliers 115-104 after overtime in the first game of the Eastern Conference finals. The visitors dominated for much of the game but crumbled in the end, losing a seemingly certain victory.

The game began with a slight advantage for the Knicks, but Cleveland took control in the second and third quarters to build a comfortable 17-point lead going into the final period.

The turning point for Cleveland and the rise of the Knicks began with less than 8 minutes to go, when Cleveland's lead hit a peak of 22 points (93-71). The Knicks then changed tactics, focusing on intense pressure across the court. Cleveland literally crumbled under the pressure, making a series of errors in ball handling. The hosts capitalized and closed regular time with an astounding 30-8 run, tying the score at 101-101.

In the five-minute overtime period, New York's dominance continued. The hosts completely neutralized their opponent, allowing only 3 points, to secure the final victory 115-104.

Jalen Brunson had a phenomenal game and was the engine behind the comeback with 38 points, 16 of which came in the crucial final quarter. Mikal Bridges added 18 points for the winners, while LaMelo Ball became the golden joker from the bench with 9 points in the most crucial moments.

For Cleveland, Donovan Mitchell scored 29 points, but was completely neutralized in the final minutes of the game. Evan Mobley and James Harden each added 15 points, but Harden was one of the disappointments, making a series of fatal errors at the end of regulation time.

The series continues with Game 2, which will be played again in New York on May 22, 2026.