Josh Hart once again led the New York Knicks to victory against the Cleveland Cavaliers, 109-93, on Friday, May 22, 2026 (Philippine time), giving them a 2-0 advantage in the Eastern Conference finals series of the 2025-26 NBA season.
Game Recap
The host New York Knicks created an 18-0 run in the third quarter to pave the way for a decisive win over the Cleveland Cavaliers, 109-93, securing a 2-0 lead in the Eastern Conference finals. Josh Hart, who had just produced 13 points during the Knicks' overtime victory in Game 1 (115-104), led the impressive offensive surge in the third quarter, scoring nine of his total 26 points.
The first two quarters were tightly contested, with the Knicks holding only a 53-49 lead at halftime.
The Cavaliers scored the first four points of the third quarter to tie the game at 53-53. However, a three-point shot by Jalen Brunson and a dunk by Hart ignited a sudden offensive explosion from the Knicks, pushing them to a 71-53 lead with 5:35 remaining in the quarter.
The Cavaliers attempted a comeback and cut the Knicks' lead to eight points, 88-80, early in the fourth quarter, but that was as close as they would get.
Key Performances
For the Knicks, Jalen Brunson and Mikal Bridges each added 19 points, Karl-Anthony Towns contributed 18 points, and OG Anunoby chipped in 14 points.
The Cavaliers, who will host the next two games of the series, were led by Donovan Mitchell with 26 points. James Harden added 18 points, Evan Mobley contributed 14 points, and Jarrett Allen scored 13 points.
