Knicks not content with simply being close to a spot in the NBA Finals
Yahoo Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- The New York Knicks emphasized playing with desperation and high energy in Game 3 of the 2026 Eastern Conference finals, leading to a 121-108 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers and putting Cleveland on the brink of elimination.
- Knicks coach Mike Brown stressed the importance of focus, physicality, effort, and constant communication as key elements of playing desperate basketball, which the team executed effectively.
- The Cavaliers struggled with low shooting percentages, particularly from three-point range (29.3% in Game 3), and were outmatched physically and energetically by the Knicks, who had the advantage of rest after sweeping their previous series.
- New York's adaptable offense, led by Karl-Anthony Towns, Jalen Brunson, and Mikal Bridges, consistently found ways to break down Cleveland’s defense, demonstrating a level of team cohesion and professionalism praised by players and coaches alike.
- The Knicks are now on a 10-plus game postseason winning streak, a rare feat that has historically been associated with NBA championship success, and are focused solely on the immediate challenge of closing out the series without looking ahead.