The New York Knicks closed out the Eastern Conference Finals in decisive fashion on Monday night, defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers 130–93 at Rocket Arena to complete a 4–0 sweep and secure their first trip to the NBA Finals in 27 years. New York controlled the game from the opening minutes, using a 20–0 first‑half run to seize momentum and never allowing Cleveland to recover.
Karl‑Anthony Towns led the Knicks with 19 points and 14 rebounds, anchoring a balanced effort that saw six New York players finish in double figures. OG Anunoby added 17 points and seven rebounds, while Jalen Brunson contributed 15 points and five assists on the night he was awarded the Larry Bird Trophy as the Eastern Conference Finals MVP.
New York’s offense was sharp throughout, scoring 38 points in the first quarter and maintaining steady production in every period. The Knicks also extended their postseason winning streak to 11 games, continuing a dominant run that has carried them through the conference bracket.
Cleveland was led by Donovan Mitchell, who scored 31 points, but the Cavaliers struggled to keep pace. Cleveland committed 18 turnovers and shot 11‑for‑40 from three‑point range, falling behind by double digits early and trailing by as many as 33 in the second half. Evan Mobley added 15 points, while James Harden scored 12.
The Knicks’ bench provided a major lift, combining for efficient scoring and helping New York maintain control even after the starters exited in the fourth quarter. Landry Shamet scored 16 points, and Miles McBride added 11 as New York emptied its bench late in the game.
With the sweep complete, New York advances to face the winner of the Western Conference Finals between the San Antonio Spurs and the Oklahoma City Thunder. Game 1 of the NBA Finals is scheduled for June 3.
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Sources
- NBA
- Yahoo Sports
- Fox Sports
- cleveland.com