Josh Hart Dominates as Knicks Take 2-0 Lead Over Cavaliers
Game recap
The New York Knicks beat the Cleveland Cavaliers 109-93 at home in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, grabbing a 2-0 edge in the series. Cleveland opened the game hot from long range, hitting five of their first ten three-point attempts and leaving the Knicks down by three after the first quarter. New York, though, quickly settled in and wrestled control back.
The second quarter belonged to the Knicks, who built a narrow lead by halftime despite several momentum swings. Josh Hart was especially active early, pouring in eight points before the break.
The third quarter swung the contest decisively. New York tore off a 14-0 run that overwhelmed Cleveland, and the Cavaliers struggled from three in the second half. Hart kept attacking the defense, knocking down all three of his triples and scoring 12 points in that period. Jalen Brunson chipped in during the quarter as well, and by the end of the third the game was largely decided. The Knicks cruised through the fourth, protecting a comfortable double-digit advantage and moving one step closer to their first NBA Finals appearance since 1999.
Standouts and what’s next
Josh Hart finished as New York’s top scorer with 26 points, shooting a perfect 3-for-3 from deep, and added 4 rebounds, 7 assists and 2 steals. Mikal Bridges and Jalen Brunson each scored 19 for the Knicks. Donovan Mitchell led Cleveland with 26 points but didn’t get enough help around him.
Game 3 is set for May 24 in Cleveland, where the Cavaliers will host their first home game of the series. With the Knicks up 2-0, the pressure shifts to Cleveland to respond and avoid falling into a deeper hole.
