Knicks Claim Dramatic Game 1 Victory Over Cavaliers

In Game 1 of the 2026 NBA playoffs Eastern Conference finals, the New York Knicks staged a remarkable comeback, beating the Cleveland Cavaliers 115-104 in overtime. The Knicks, who swept the Philadelphia 76ers in the prior round, faced the Cavaliers, who had advanced after a hard-fought seven-game series against the Detroit Pistons.

The Knicks erased a 22-point deficit during the fourth quarter, marking the largest playoff comeback in franchise history. With 7:52 left in the game, they had only a 0.1% chance of winning according to ESPN Analytics. Jalen Brunson shone brightly, scoring 17 of his total 38 points in the crucial latter stages of the game. In an impressive turnaround, the Knicks managed to sink six of their last nine 3-pointers, turning a dismal shooting night around.

Cleveland coach Kenny Atkinson noted that his team had entered the series at a disadvantage due to the Knicks’ rest advantage, emphasizing the necessity for the Cavaliers to stop New York's momentum. However, after building a substantial lead, the Cavaliers fell apart in the closing minutes of the game. Donovan Mitchell did not score in overtime, and James Harden struggled, committing six turnovers and failing defensively against Brunson.

As the game unfolded, a critical turning point came with 8:19 remaining in the fourth when Mitchell hit a 3-pointer, giving Cleveland a 92-71 lead. It appeared Cleveland was poised for victory, but that shot became the last field goal for the Cavaliers for over five minutes. The Knicks seized the moment, rallying under Brunson’s leadership. They executed an incredible run, finishing the game with a 44-11 scoring surge from the end of the fourth quarter into overtime.

Game 2 is slated for Thursday at 8:00 p.m. ET, where the Cavaliers will aim to recover. Notably, Cleveland's chances may hinge on giving the ball to Mitchell more deliberately, considering Harden's struggles in the fourth quarter of Game 1. This first game’s collapse is poised to linger in Cleveland fans' minds should they falter further in the series.