New York back in NBA Finals for first time since 1999 : NPR
NPR • • general
Key Points:
- The New York Knicks defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers 130-93 to complete a four-game sweep of the Eastern Conference finals, advancing to the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999.
- Karl Anthony-Towns led the Knicks with 19 points and 14 rebounds, while OG Anunoby added 17 points; Jalen Brunson was named series MVP, averaging 25.5 points and 7.8 assists.
- The Knicks dominated second-chance points (32-5) and fast break points (33-9), maintaining an 11-game postseason winning streak and winning most games by double digits.
- New York will face the Western Conference champion, either the Oklahoma City Thunder or San Antonio Spurs, in the NBA Finals starting June 3, with the Western team holding homecourt advantage.
- Cleveland was swept for the first time since 2018, with Donovan Mitchell scoring 31 points in the loss; Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson credited the Knicks' superior play throughout the series.