25-26 Knicks Go Up 2-0 in Eastern Conference Finals Against the Cavs

A day after the Oklahoma City Thunder tied the Western Conference Finals at one game apiece against the San Antonio Spurs, the New York Knicks look to defend their home court once again in the Eastern Conference Finals versus the Cleveland Cavaliers. In Game One, New York came back from a historic 22-point deficit to take a huge momentum-shifting win at MSG, making franchise history. Game Two saw the Knicks press the gas pedal in the second, third, and fourth quarters to pull off a 109-93 win. As the series shifts to Cleveland, the Cavs face immense pressure coming back from a 2-0 hole; however, they should be looking for revenge, not only for losing the first two games of the series but for New York fans shouting “Knicks in four.”

Brunson Comes Alive in the Second Half

After scoring just two points in the first half of Game Two, Jalen Brunson erupted for 17 points during the second half. Even with recording two points during the first two quarters, the Knicks still led by four. The three-time all-star made sure to provide the offense necessary for the team to find continuous success. He must continue to do so even as the series shifts to Cleveland. Brunson’s scoring and playmaking are extremely vital to New York’s offense, so stepping up after missing out during the first half is huge going into Games Three and Four.

Josh Hart Proves Doubters Wrong

A pivotal decision in Game One had Landry Shamet replace Josh Hart, where Shamet dropped nine points, all of which came from beyond the arc. Many fans questioned whether coach Mike Brown should bench Hart, yet the 31-year-old finished the game tied for the top scorer of the night alongside Donovan Mitchell with 26 points. Hart drained five three’s while grabbing four rebounds and dishing out seven assists. Even with all the past struggles, he stepped up when it mattered most and gave New York a massive win.

Jobs Not Finished for New York

Knicks fans cannot get overzealous just yet. There are still two more wins to obtain against tough teams like the Cavs. New York fans must enjoy their team getting the job done and earning that trip to the NBA Finals. Knicks fans haven’t seen the Finals in 27 years. While the wait has been long, patience is a virtue, as the job is not finished.