New York turned a one-point deficit into a 10-point halftime lead over Cleveland.
On Saturday, Cleveland edged ahead 27-26 after the first quarter, but New York seized control with a 37-point second to take a 63-53 halftime lead. Jalen Brunson poured in 20 points on 7-of-15 shooting, while Karl-Anthony Towns added 18 points and six rebounds. Donovan Mitchell leads Cleveland with 11 points, but James Harden has just five on 1-of-5 shooting. After the break, Cleveland needs more scoring from its backcourt, while the Knicks will look to keep their balanced attack rolling and protect the double-digit cushion.
Key Performers
Jalen Brunson (NYK): 20 points, 7-of-15 FG, 4 assists Karl-Anthony Towns (NYK): 18 points, 6 rebounds Donovan Mitchell (CLE): 11 points, 3 rebounds