Knicks fans partied like it was 1999 on Monday night, punctuating a dominant run to the NBA Finals with a one-sided sweep of the Cleveland Cavaliers that plunged the Big Apple into jubilant chaos.
The win ended a 27-year dry spell since their last Finals appearance — and Knicks nation was quick to use the opportunity to make up for lost time.
The New York Knicks celebrate with the Bob Cousy Trophy after defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers 130-93 in Game Four of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals at Rocket Arena on May 25, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. Getty Images
“The city has been waiting for it since 1999. We’ve been through so many losses and the fans have always stuck close. It’s nice to finally be on the winning side,” Kevin Calle, a 30-year-old human resources manager from New Jersey, told The Post outside of Radio City’s watch party.
“It’s our time. The team is made up of a lot of underdogs. Let’s hope Manhattan makes it out alive tonight!”
While the scene at a Radio City remained under control, Madison Square Garden was plunged into a frenzy where thousands of revelers packed the streets immediately outside The Mecca.
Some scaled lamp posts, while others used brooms to perform a ceremonial “sweep” and hoisted themselves onto elevated ledges.
Within an hour of the Knicks’ clinching win — a 37-point drubbing of the Cavs — fans were chanting, “f—k the World Cup!”
Fans during a watch party for game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals between the New York Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers at Radio City Music Hall on May 25, 2026 in New York City. Michael Nagle for NY PostNew York Knicks’ Ariel Hukporti dunks the ball during the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers during Game Four of the 2026 Eastern Conference Finals on May 25, 2026, at Rocket Arena in Cleveland, Ohio. NBAE via Getty Images
MetLife Stadium is set to host several World Cup matches in June and July.
Many in the mob weren’t alive to see the Knicks play the lat time they made the NBA Finals in 1999, when they lost to the San Antonio Spurs.
“It’s the New York summer. There’s a lot of things going on. The Yankees are doing well, but we got the New York Knicks taking it to the moon. Taking it to the moon!’ Juan Pablo Estupinan, 23, told The Post outside of MSG — while even younger fans crowd-surfed above him.
Filmmaker Spike Lee and actor Timothee Chalamet react after the New York Knicks defeat the Cleveland Cavaliers in game four of the Eastern Conference Finals for the 2026 NBA playoffs at Rocket Arena. David Richard-Imagn ImagesThe Knicks squashed the Cleveland Cavaliers in four straight games and emerged as Eastern Conference Champions on Monday. Michael Nagle for NY PostWhile they still have a long road to the NBA finals ahead of them, the Knicks Nation was quick to celebrate. Michael Nagle for NY Post
“We’re split in baseball, we’re split on football, but New Yorkers are united with the Knicks,” said Henry Hunt, 23, from New Jersey.
“The crowd is going nuts. We’ve been waiting for this for a long time.”
Knicks diehards who trekked to Cleveland for Games 3 and 4 threw their own party outside of Rocket Arena — turning it up right in front of despondent Cavs’s fans.
Knicks fans shutdown 8th Ave while celebrating sweep of Cavs to advance to the NBA Finals pic.twitter.com/xHXhekiYfp
“It’s incredible. I’m on top of the world. There is no stopping the Knicks,” Tara Hochberg, 50, of Long Island, told The Post.
“We want Wemby,” Hochberg and dozens of others chanted, referencing Spurs superstar center Victor Wembanyama. And the same call echoed outside of The Garden as the Knicks await the winner of the Western Conference Finals between San Antonio and the Oklahoma City Thunder.
Knicks fans celebrate during watch party. Michael Nagle for NY PostKnicks fans celebrate in the city after the team finished sweep of Cavaliers in Eastern Conference finals. Getty Images
Even Mayor Zohran Mamdani, who attended Game 2 in the nosebleed seats at MSG, got in on the action poking fun at the decisive win over Cleveland.
“NYC Sanitation, I’d like to report a sweep,” Hizzoner wrote on X.
Remember those questions after Game 1 about Karl-Anthony Towns struggling against Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley?
He dominated the Cavaliers big men over the last three games, and was at his best in the clincher, tallying 19 points, 14 rebounds, three assists, two steals and two blocks.
In his 26 minutes Monday night, the Knicks outscored Cleveland by 25 points. He also shot 50 percent from 3 (8-for-16) in the series.
Knicks guard Mikal Bridges (25) puts up a shot as Cleveland Cavaliers guard James Harden (1) defends during the second quarter of Game 4. Charles Wenzelberg/New York Post
Zero
Are the Cavaliers sure they want to pay free agent-to-be James Harden?
He was a mess in this series, and was again a major problem in the final game, limited to 12 points on 2-for-8 shooting.
He also committed five turnovers, and finished with 17 and a minus-55 rating in the four contests.
Unsung Hero
OG Anunoby is all the way back from that right hamstring strain. He threw down two ridiculous dunks that brought the many Knicks fans in attendance out of their seats.
The two-way wing finished with 17 points, seven rebounds, four assists and two steals.
Most importantly, he looks like his pre-injury self after a slow start in the Eastern Conference finals.
Key Stat
118: Knicks point differential in elimination games on the road against the Hawks, 76ers and Cavaliers.
Quote
“It’s a magical thing, it’s a historical thing. It’s something that New York has been dying for a long, long time. We’ll enjoy that plane ride, but once we get in those cars and go to our respective homes, it’s going to be back to business.” — Karl-Anthony Towns.
May 25, 2026; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Carolina Hurricanes right wing Andrei Svechnikov (37) is tripped by Montreal Canadiens defenseman Kaiden Guhle (21) during the second period in game three of the Eastern Conference Final of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images
Eric Bolte-Imagn Images
MONTREAL — Andrei Svechnikov scored at 14:06 of overtime as the Carolina Hurricanes defeated the Montreal Canadiens 3-2 on Monday night to take a 2-1 lead in the Eastern Conference Final.
Shayne Gostisbehere and Taylor Hall scored in regulation for Carolina. Frederik Andersen made 11 saves.
Mike Matheson and Lane Hutson scored for Montreal, which got 35 stops from Jakub Dobes.
The best-of-seven series returns to the Bell Centre for Game 4 on Wednesday.
Andrei Svechnikov fired a shot through a crowd after a back-and-forth with Seth Jarivs for the winning tally.
After picking up a 3-2 extra-time victory at home Saturday that looked a lot more like their relentless style following a discombobulated 6-2 loss in Thursday’s opener, the Hurricanes came out flying and took the lead at 8:24 of the first period when the puck popped into the slot for Gostisbehere to fire in off the left post past a diving Dobes.
The Canadiens, who topped the Tampa Bay Lightning and Buffalo Sabres in a pair of seven-game matchups to make the conference final despite a combined 2-4 record at home, tied it at 15:28.
Carolina, the East’s top seed coming off sweeps of the Ottawa Senators and Philadelphia Flyers, pushed back less than minute later when Hall shoveled home his own rebound from in tight past Dobes as the winger was falling to the ice at 16:22.
Montreal, which registered just 12 shots in Game 2, evened things up on a power play at 4:43 of the second period.
Knicks center Mitchell Robinson (23) slams the ball during the third quarter.
CLEVELAND — Mitchell Robinson has proved to be a survivor: of the Scott Perry regime; of Knicks teams that were not even pretenders, losing at least 45 games in three of his first four seasons in the NBA.
Robinson was a building block when it started to turn around under team president Leon Rose and a key piece as the Knicks became legitimate contenders.
Monday night, the longest-tenured Knick became part of the franchise’s first Eastern Conference championship team in 27 years. He experienced losing, and he was impactful enough to be around once it all turned.
Knicks center Mitchell Robinson (23) slams the ball during the third quarter. Charles Wenzelberg/New York Post
In the clincher, a 130-93 blowout of the Cavaliers, Robinson enjoyed his best game of the series: eight points and 10 rebounds in 18 minutes. He’s a key piece to the improved bench from a year ago, a rim-protecting, rebounding machine. Robinson was a starter early in the season, but coach Mike Brown felt going with Josh Hart as a starter and bringing Robinson off the bench suited the team better.
“Mitch can start for any team in the league — any team. And if he started, he might be first team all-defense and some other things, who knows?” Brown said.
“But this does not work if Mitch does not allow us to do that. If he doesn’t sacrifice himself and allows us to do that, because you’re talking about a starting center that you throw in the game maybe for 30 seconds sometimes, or two minutes, whatever it is, you pull them right back out. So it starts and ends with him, and him sacrificing himself for the team.”
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This could be Robinson’s final year as a Knick. He is an unrestricted free agent. But before any of that, there is a title up for grabs. The Knicks are going to need Robinson in the next round, especially if there is a 1999 NBA Finals rematch against the Spurs. Victor Wembanyama could be waiting, and the Knicks could have an answer for the 7-foot-4 unicorn in the defensively gifted Robinson.
May 25, 2026; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; A general view of Rocket Arena after the New York Knicks defeat the the Cleveland Cavaliers in game four of the eastern conference finals for the 2026 NBA playoffs. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-Imagn Images | David Richard-Imagn Images
The New York Knickerbockers are returning the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999. Every Spurs fan remembers (or depending on your age, is familiar with) with those particular Finals.
The franchise has made four Finals appearances, but New York has not won a title since 1973.
They head into the 2026 Finals on a heater, completing the sweep of the Cavaliers last night in Cleveland.
Cleveland, who haven’t made it this far into the postseason since LeBron James moved to Hollywood, had been steadily improving since the pandemic bubble of 2020. In 2022, they brought in Donovan Mitchell and began producing winning records again. This season, they made a midseason trade for James Harden, finishing the season with the former MVP on a 20-9 run.
They landed forth in the Eastern Conference. After a seven game series against the Toronto Raptors, they faced the top seeded Detroit Pistons. They upset the Pistons in the seventh game blowout on Detroit’s home court.
Last night they suffered the second sweep that New York has dished out in these playoffs. The Knicks elimintaed the Hawks in six games in the first round of the playoffs before sweeping the Philadelphia 76ers.
James Harden has made the playoffs in each of his seventeen seasons, but has never hoisted the Larry O’Brien.
Jalen Brunson and company now await the winner of the Western Conference Finals. A Spurs match up reunites the two since the Spurs won the first of their five titles.
A Knicks/Spurs finals series also continues not having back-to-back champions, a trend since the Warriors last back-to-bcak in 2019.
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LOS ANGELES, CA - MAY 25: Emmet Sheehan #80 of the Los Angeles Dodgers pitches during the game between the Colorado Rockies and the Los Angeles Dodgers at UNIQLO Field at Dodger Stadium on Monday, May 25, 2026 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Nicole Vasquez/MLB Photos via Getty Images) | MLB Photos via Getty Images
When you’re facing a disadvantage in both the starting pitching duel and also the bullpen, nine innings is quite a long time, and that’s what the Rockies learned in this 5-3 defeat to the Dodgers. Tanner Gordon did his best to keep up with Emmet Sheehan and even left the game with a 2-1 lead, but Colorado didn’t have the bullpen depth to toss four scoreless innings, ultimately coughing up the lead in a seventh-inning rally that saw the home team score four runs.
Unfazed by the disappointing nature with which his offense kept stranding runners inning after inning in the early goings, Sheehan delivered a quality outing on the back of one of his best fastball days of the year. Sheehan’s four-seamer was working so well for him that he upped the usage to over 50 percent of the time, inducing 10 of his 17 whiffs in the game with it.
While the Dodgers failed to string hitters together against Tanner Gordon, the Rockies found a way to hurt Sheehan by pooling all of their hits together. Three of the five hits conceded by Sheehan came in the top of the fourth when the Rockies took the lead courtesy of an RBI single from Troy Johnston and a sacrifice fly from Ezequiel Tovar. The Colorado shortstop would be at the center of the action for this one, as right after Sheehan left the game, he took it upon himself to end the Dodgers’ bullpen scoreless streak of 38 innings with a solo shot against Kyle Hurt. This was the first run Hurt allowed since his season debut against the Mets over a month ago, putting an end to 14 scoreless innings for him.
Entering the bottom of the seventh, the Dodgers had stranded at least one runner in four of the first six, and then a loss of command from relievers Juan Mejía and Brennan Bernadino got the home team going. Will Smith, Hyesong Kim, and Miguel Rojas loaded the bases without having to swing the bat, courtesy of a couple of walks and an HBP, and then the top of the order went to work on capitalizing. Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts drove in runs with productive outs, Freddie Freeman helped LA take the lead with an RBI double, and was subsequently driven in by Andy Pages.
On an individual note, we must talk about Kiké Hernández, who, even in the ninth hole, found a way to be one of, if not the most productive, Dodgers hitters in the game. Hernández went two-for-two early on before being pulled for a pinch-hitter in the seventh. Once Dalton Rushing was announced as the pinch-hitter for Hernández with a righty on the mound in the seventh, the Rockies went to the lefty Bernadino, which made Dave Roberts counter with Miguel Rojas, who got on base via a hit-by-pitch. Maybe it was the ninth spot that finished the game with a perfect on-base percentage.
Contrasting with the struggles of the Rockies bullpen that cost them the game, the Dodgers relievers were outstanding apart from that solo shot by Tovar. Vesia came in for the save, but one baserunner was enough to make Roberts go to Blake Treinen with a righty on base and two outs in the inning. Treinen got the punchout against Braxton Fulford and earned the save, his first of the year.
A couple of veteran southpaws square off on Tuesday at 7:10 p.m. (PT). Eric Lauer will be making his first start with the Dodgers, recently acquired from the Blue Jays, while the Rockies will counter with one of their longest-tenured players in Kyle Freeland. Selected in the first round of the Draft in 2014, Freeland is in the middle of his 10th major-league season with the Rox.
It took sheer grit, the relentless motor of Josh Hart, the elite scoring of Karl-Anthony Towns and the absolute superstardom of Jalen Brunson to get the job done. But this run isn’t just about punching a ticket to the Finals; it’s about celebrating a squad that finally brought real, heavyweight basketball back to New York City (by way of Cleveland).
Now that the confetti has dropped and the Eastern Conference trophy has been hoisted, you need the gear to prove you were here for the ride.
The MVPs of merch, Fanatics, have officially launched the Knicks’ championship collection, and considering the hunger of this fanbase, inventory isn’t going to last long.
From the official Locker Room hats worn by the players during the celebration to exclusive autographed memorabilia, here is just the tip of the iceberg of the best Knicks Eastern Conference Champs gear to snag right now.
Looking for more — we got you.
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MONTREAL, CANADA - MAY 25: Taylor Hall #71 of the Carolina Hurricanes scores a goal past Jakub Dobes #75 of the Montréal Canadiens as Logan Stankoven #22 celebrates during the first period in Game Three of the Eastern Conference Final of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Bell Centre on May 25, 2026 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The Carolina Hurricanes defeated the Montreal Canadiens, 3-2, in overtime on Monday night at the Bell Centre.
When the Canes needed them most, the top line stepped up. Andrei Svechnikov’s shot 14 minutes into overtime gave the Canes their second straight 3-2 overtime win and a 2-1 series lead. Only two wins separate the Canes from a Stanley Cup berth. The road to the Stanley Cup in the East once again runs through Raleigh, with the Hurricanes taking back home ice advantage in the series.
Much of the first half of the first period was controlled by the Hurricanes’ relentless forecheck that hardly allowed Montreal any clean breakouts.
Shayne Gostisbehere put the Canes on the board first, finding the back of the net less than 10 minutes into the game on a great pinch in. For the third straight game, Carolina took a 1-0 lead early in the first period.
Carolina’s forecheck seemed to let off the gas a bit in the first period. That lull in action allowed the Canadiens to tie the game on a pinch in of their own, as defenseman Mike Matheson found the top corner of the net to tie the game at 1-1.
Just as quick as the Habs tied the game, the Canes took the lead right back. Taylor Hall notched his fourth goal of the playoffs on a tap in up close with a little over three minutes left in the opening period.
Following the first period, the Canes held a 14-5 shot advantage.
In the second period both teams continued to trade offensive chances, a stark change to the series.
After Jordan Martinook took a slashing penalty around five minutes into the period, Carolina’s penalty killing streak came to an end on a give-and-go resulting in a Lane Huston goal.
The Canes were able to counter with a 3-on-1, but Canadiens goaltender Jakub Dobes made a save on a shot from Svechnikov to keep the game tied.
Carolina was unable to convert on their second power play of the night, with Seth Jarvis ringing a shot off the post.
For the first time in the series, the game was tied heading into the third period.
After a slow start to third period, it looked like the Canadiens had taken the lead after Noah Dobson banked it in. But after the Hurricanes challenged the play, it was determined Cole Caufield went offsides prior to the goal, keeping the game knotted.
The Hurricanes were unable to convert on their third power play of the game, bringing their series total to 0-for-8.
For the second straight game, overtime was needed to break a 2-2 tie.
After a Montreal turnover, the shot from Svechnikov sealed the game for the Canes and gave them their second straight overtime victory. The Hurricanes are now 5-0 during the playoffs in overtime games.
Game 4 is set for Wednesday at 8 PM, with a chance for Carolina to take a demanding 3-1 series lead heading back to Raleigh.
May 25, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays center fielder Nathan Lukes (38) breaks his bat hitting a single against the Miami Marlins in the first inning at Rogers Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images | Dan Hamilton-Imagn Images
Marlins 8 Jays 2
That was just pathetic.
I don’t really want to recap that, but….the Jays have had a lot of poor defensive outfielders, but Yohendrick Piñango had what must be one of the worst defensive games in team history. He seems to be scared to take charge. Scared to call ‘mine’ and go get a ball. He had an easily catchable ball fall in front of him and, later, had an easily catchable ball go over his head. I don’t think he’s a terrible outfielder, but he seems scared to go make a play.
Beyond that, Trey Yesavage was not great. 6.2 innings, 5 hits, 5 earned, 2 walks, and 6 strikeouts. He was let down by his defense at key times.
Beyond that, Tyler Rogers had a tough time, 3 earned runs while getting just two outs. He could have used some help from his defense, but he’s supposed to be a ground ball pitcher, who is giving up way too many fly balls. Adam Macko had a tough time, too, giving up 2 hits while getting just one out.
Tanner Andrews got into his first MLB game, pitching a clean ninth. It is great to see someone who has worked so long and so hard finally get to the majors.
On offense? 10 hits and 3 walks, but just the two runs. Nathan Lukes, finally making it back from the IL, had 3 hits. Ernie Clements had 2 hits, including a home run. Getting the 0 fors were George Springer and Andrés Giménez, both of whom came up in big moments and failed.
Jays of the Day: Lukes (0.14 WPA).
Other Award: Yesavage (-0.22), Springer (-0.14), Gimenez (-0.13), Okamoto (-0.10), and let’s give one to Piñango for his inept defense.
Tomorrow we have Sandy Alcantara (3-3, 4.00) vs. Braydon (2-1, 2.73).
It can’t be any worse than today. Right? Please let’s not be worse than today.
The Carolina Hurricanes have taken the lead in the Eastern Conference finals because they have figured out how to win the territorial battle and the overtime.
Game 3 was the second consecutive overtime game in the series and the Hurricanes prevailed again, this time on an Andrei Svechnikov goal, for a 3-2 victory and a 2-1 series lead.
The Hurricanes have found their game again after a 6-2 blowout loss in the opener that could have been the result of 11 days off following back-to-back sweeps.
But the past two games have seen a return to Hurricanes hockey of aggressive forechecking and firing plenty of shots. It was evident from the start of Game 2, in which Carolina outshot Montreal 26-12. It was more pronounced in Game 3 with a 38-13 shot edge. And that was with Montreal blocking 33 shots.
The Hurricanes, who won Game 2 on a Nikolaj Ehlers goal, and Canadiens alternated goals in Game 3.
Hurricanes defenseman Shayne Gostisbehere opened the scoring in the first period, but Mike Matheson tied it for Montreal. Taylor Hall scored less than a minute later to put Carolina ahead 2-1 before the end of the period.
Lane Hutson tied the game in the second period and a waved-off Montreal goal (for offsides) forced the 20th overtime game of the 2026 NHL playoffs.
Though the Canadiens had a couple early chances, Carolina outshot them 6-1 in the extra period.
The winning play started when Carolina intercepted a pass and entered the zone. Seth Jarvis found Svechnikov, whose shot beat a screened Jakub Dobes. Sebastian Aho, was battling Juraj Slafkovsky for position in front of Dobes, was initially awarded the goal but it later was given to Svechnikov.
"There's a chance that it went off my hip," Aho told TNT. "But I don't care who gets the goal. We'll take the win."
The Hurricanes improved to 5-0 in overtime this postseason while the Canadiens fell to 3-4.
Montreal also fell to 2-5 at home. The Canadiens will have to figure out to beat the Hurricanes' aggressive forecheck, as they did in Game 1, if they are going to be able to tie the series in Game 4 on Wednesday, May 27.
Here are highlights from Game 3 of the Eastern Conference finals:
The Hurricanes dominate in shots for the second game in a row. The Canadiens push it to overtime for the second game in a row. And the Hurricanes prevail again for a 2-1 lead in the Eastern Conference finals.
The Hurricanes enter the zone after a turnover and the puck eventually gets to Andrei Svechnikov, whose shot beats a screened Jakub Dobes at 14:06 of overtime. Sebastian Aho, who had been setting the screen, was originally awarded the goal, but it was changed to Svechnikov.
CLEVELAND, OHIO - MAY 25: The New York Knicks celebrate with the Bob Cousy Trophy after defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers 130-93 in Game Four of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals at Rocket Arena on May 25, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) | Getty Images
During player introductions, the Knicks fans visiting Rocket Arena tonight were nearly as loud as the home crowd. Can you blame them for being boisterous? Crossing the 53-year desert since the last championship has made us mighty thirsty.
We finally have real reason to believe.
After some fine-tuning in Games Two and Three against the Hawks in the first round, the team that Leon Rose built has become a juggernaut. Tonight, in Game Four of the Eastern Conference Finals, with their season on the line, Donovan Mitchell and the Cleveland Cavaliers put up some resistance in the first quarter. Then New York seized the rope midway through the period, methodically went about their business, and piled on a 45-point lead to complete the sweep with a 130-93 victory.
That makes 11 straight wins, returning the orange and blue to the NBA Finals for the first time in 27 years. For the first time this century, they seem unstoppable. They seem inevitable.
From the tipoff, the game plans were obvious. The Knicks planned to push the pace, hurling rebounds down the court for 13 fast-break points in the first period, while the Cavs asked seven-time All-Star Donovan Mitchell to save their season. Spida did his best, scoring 12 points in the quarter and finishing with 31 points on 9-of-18 shooting in 32 minutes.
Each team shot poorly early, but improved as the game went on. The visitors capitalized on four Cleveland misses to go on a 9-0 run in the middle of the frame. As he had for most of the series, James Harden bricked multiple times. The vet ended his evening with 12 points and missed all six of his long-range attempts, once again fading into the background on the NBA’s biggest stage.
On the other side, Deuce McBride, Landry Shamet, and Brunson all connected from deep, showing yet again the depth of their offense. After falling behind by six, the Knicks outscored the Cavs by 18 to close the quarter ahead, 38-26.
Thanks to two buckets by Jose Alvarado, triples by McBride and the smokin’ hot Shamet (16 PTS, 19 MIN), and a put-back slam by Karl-Anthony Towns (19 PTS, 14 RBS), New York scored 12 unanswered points to start the second quarter. That put them ahead by 24 points. Harden made three free throws and Spida swished one from deep, but they were using paper cups to fight a flood.
The Knicks got buckets from everybody and sprinted the court like Usain Bolt on amphetamines. Everything went right for our heroes. When Brunson stepped to the free-throw line at the midway mark, Rocket Arena thundered with MVP chants. He rebounded his own missed freebie, which promptly became another Shamet bomb for a 29-point lead.
The Ohio Players responded with a 15-3 run, with contributions from Max Strus, Mobley, Harden, and Mitchell, but another acrobatic, falling-away, shot-clock-beating shot by Bridges got the Knicks back on track. At halftime, the good guys were still up, 68-49.
Through the first half, New York protected the ball (four turnovers), cooked in transition (winning fast breaks 26-3), and smashed the glass (26-17). They pummeled Cleveland in the paint and converted nine turnovers into 18 points. Add 17 assists on 25 made shots, and what complaints could you possibly have? The Knicks came to close out the sweep, and the Cavs played like their suitcases were already packed for vacation. Landry Shamet—off the bench—led the way with 11 points, and KAT already had a double-double. Mitchell had 20 for The Land.
The Cavaliers emerged from halftime on a mission to save their dignity. Their defense forced New York into a turnover and a shot-clock violation, and a little run cut the deficit to 16. No sweat. New York just needed a minute or two to regain its rhythm. A steal by Josh Hart, a block by KAT, and back-to-back three-pointers stretched the gap to 22 at the eight-minute mark.
Kenny Atkinson called for time to regroup his troops. Out of that break, OG Anunoby intercepted Harden for a pick-six. Then Merrill and Mitchell both missed from deep, and Allen threw the ball out of bounds. Kenny took a seat as if admitting defeat while New York continued to grind Cleveland’s hopes to powder, dunking its way to a 30-point lead again. Our heroes never stopped running or harassing the Cavs, holding them to just 22 points in the quarter. By the buzzer, they were up 98-71.
Brunson rested through the fourth quarter, taking a well-deserved break. He logged 15 points tonight, but his fingerprints were all over this game just as his identity is all over this team. While he watched from the sidelines, the reserves got to have fun, with Tyler Kolek, Pacome Dadiet, and Jordan Clarkson splashing buckets to reach a 45-point lead. The Cavs fans left early. The Knicks fans stayed for the party.
After the game, Walt Frazier and Patrick Ewing presented the team with the Bob Cousy trophy for winning the conference, and then gave Jalen Brunson the series MVP trophy. Lisa Salters interviewed him, but the captain was short on hyperbole, as usual. Because for the incredible Jalen, the job remains incomplete. There are four more wins on his agenda.
Professor Miranda is dusting his recap with the usual magic powder. As for the Knicks, they wait to see who their opponent will be. Will it be the Spurs, whom the Knicks defeated for the NBA Cup in Vegas? Or the Thunder, who are trying to flop their way to a second championship? Doesn’t matter to us, the Knicks are ready for either one.
SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - MARCH 04: Landry Shamet #20 of the Washington Wizards in action during the second half of a game against the Utah Jazz at Delta Center on March 04, 2024 in Salt Lake City, Utah. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Goodlett/Getty Images) | Getty Images
The streak continues.
Former Washington Wizards players Landry Shamet (2023-24), Dillon Jones (2025-26) and Trey Jemison III (2023-24) made the 2026 NBA Finals with the New York Knicks on Monday.
It marked the 18th straight year that a former Wizard will grace an NBA Finals roster — a streak that dates back to 2009.
Former Wizards Landry Shamet (23-24) and Dillon Jones (25-26) have made the NBA Finals with the New York Knicks.
It marks the 18th straight NBA Finals that will feature a former Wizard — a streak that dates back to 2009. pic.twitter.com/3hMsE7R98J
Karl-Anthony Towns #32 of the New York Knicks celebrates during the third quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game Four of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals at Rocket Arena on May 25, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio.
CLEVELAND — The third time was the charm.
Two years ago, Karl-Anthony Towns reached the Western Conference finals as a member of the Timberwolves and lost in five games.
Last year, in his first season with the Knicks, the Pacers ruined his dream of reaching the NBA Finals.
But this spring, he was able to break through, and Towns was far from a secondary contributor.
Karl-Anthony Towns drives to the basket for a layup against the Cavaliers on May 25, 2026. Charles Wenzelberg/New York Post
He was a vital piece of the rampaging Knicks rolling through the Eastern Conference like a freight train. They won a franchise record 11th straight playoff game, completing a dominant series sweep of the Cavaliers with a 130-93 throttling at Knicks fan haven Rocket Arena.
“Experience — experience teaches you a lot,” Towns said. “This is my third conference finals in a row, and I finally got over the hump, finally got to the Finals. For me, I’m going to enjoy this moment, I’m going to enjoy tonight.”
Towns was one of the heroes, notching his eighth double-double of the playoffs with 19 points, 14 rebounds, three assists, two blocks and two steals.
Entering the series, there was some uncertainty how Towns would deal with the versatile and talented Cavaliers big men, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. He struggled in the opener, a game in which Jalen Brunson rallied the Knicks from a 22-point fourth-quarter deficit.
From there, however, Towns was the best big man in this series, imposing his will at both ends of the floor. He was a monster on the glass, averaging 12 rebounds in the series, along with 15.7 points.
Coach Mike Brown’s decision to tweak the offense and run it through Towns at times became one of the storylines of this postseason run. The Knicks were trailing the Hawks 2-1 at the time, and they haven’t lost since.
Karl-Anthony Towns celebrates with Knicks teamamtes during Game 4 of the Eastern Conference finals. Getty Images
Towns struggled for much of the regular season, averaging his fewest points (20.1) since his rookie year. His 13.8 field goal attempts were the fewest of his 11-year NBA career. But he has turned it up in the playoffs, particularly in this new role of playmaker, tallying 6.1 assists — more than quadrupling what he produced in the playoffs a year ago.
He’s been a more efficient player, his shooting percentages improving across the board (55.9 percent from the field, 45.2 percent from 3-point range) as the stakes have risen. And now, he will get to play on the sport’s biggest stage, for his hometown team.
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“It means the world. I grew up a Knicks fan, as was documented,” Towns said. “What’s more of an honor is growing up in the area, I feel like the word ‘hope’ has been gone from the New York Knicks name for a long time. To be a part of this team that revives the word hope in the city, it’s something special, and it’s an honor.”
After more than two decades of pain, suffering and way too much time thinking the Stephon Marbury trade would right the franchise's ship, the Knicks have returned to the NBA Finals. All that's left for them to do is wait to see who they'll face.
In the West, the San Antonio Spurs and Oklahoma City Thunder are duking it out in a series for the ages. Whoever emerges victorious will undoubtedly be the favorite to hoist the Larry O'Brien Trophy when all is said and done, but the Knicks shouldn't be counted out entirely. Their 11 straight postseason victories are the most in franchise history, and tied for the third-longest such streak in league history with the 1989 and 2001 Los Angeles Lakers.
Momentum matters a whole lot when it comes to the NBA postseason, which is why it could be a disadvantage for the Knicks to have to wait so long following their victory in the Eastern Conference finals. Here's the full schedule for the 2026 NBA Finals:
2026 NBA Finals schedule
The NBA Finals will stream exclusively on ABC with all games starting at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT.
*- if necessary
Game 1: Wednesday, June 3 at Thunder/Spurs, 8:30 p.m. ET | ABC
Game 2: Friday, June 5 at Thunder/Spurs, 8:30 p.m. ET | ABC
Game 3: Monday, June 8 at Knicks, 8:30 p.m. ET | ABC
Game 4: Wednesday, June 10 at Knicks, 8:30 p.m. ET | ABC
Game 5*: Saturday, June 13 at Thunder/Spurs, 8:30 p.m. ET | ABC
Game 6*: Tuesday, June 16 at Knicks, 8:30 p.m. ET | ABC
Game 7*: Friday, June 19 at Thunder/Spurs, 8:30 p.m. ET | ABC
The New York Knicks hold the Eastern Conference Championship trophy after sweeping the Cleveland Cavaliers. Photograph: Tim Phillis/AP
The New York Knicks are back in the NBA finals for the first time since 1999 after another overwhelming victory completed a 4-0 sweep of the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference finals.
The Knicks are in ruthless form as they attempt to win their first NBA championship since 1973. They also swept the Philadelphia 76ers in the Eastern Conference semi-finals and beat the Atlanta Hawks 4-2 in the first round of the playoffs. While their path to the finals in their Eastern Conference has been smooth they will face a stiff test to claim the NBA title. They will face either the reigning champion Oklahoma City Thunder, a team with very few flaws, or the San Antonio Spurs, led by 7ft 4in superstar Victor Wembanyama. The Spurs-Thunder series is tied at 2-2 with Game 5 on Tuesday night.
For now though, the Knicks can rest up and look back on an excellent series against the Cavaliers after completing the sweep with a 130-93 win. Cleveland only seriously threatened the Knicks in the opening game of the East finals, when they held a 22-point lead in the fourth quarter, before Jalen Brunson inspired New York to a thrilling comeback win in overtime. The Knicks won the next three games by 16, 13 and 37 points and are on an 11-game winning streak, the third longest in a single postseason in NBA history.
Brunson, whose father Rick played for the Knicks the last time they reached the finals, has been the star of the series but paid tribute to the rest of the Knicks after Monday night’s game.
“It means a lot [to get to the finals], but I wouldn’t be here without my teammates,” Brunson said on the ESPN broadcast. “My coach, this staff, the fanbase, without them none of this is possible.”
Brunson was also awarded the Larry Bird Trophy as the Eastern Conference finals MVP after averaging 25.5 points and 7.8 assists across the series.
“[Brunson’s leadership] is vital for us,” said Josh Hart of his teammate. “He’s an even keel, he doesn’t let us get too high or too low. Even games like this when we’re up 15 or 20, he wants to make sure we’re doubling down on our habits.”
Monday’s game was all but over after the Knicks went on a 20-0 run at the end of the first quarter and early into the second. Karl-Anthony Towns led the way for New York with 19 points and 14 rebounds. Cleveland’s Donovan Mitchell put up 31 points but once again he could not lead his team to a serious challenge against the Knicks.
“They’re playing better basketball. You got to give them credit. They’re on a heater. I don’t want to detract from what we’ve done, but sometimes you’ve got to give the other team credit,” Cleveland coach Kenny Atkinson said.
The Knicks’ presence will bring plenty of attention to this year’s finals. On Monday, several of their high-profile fans, including Spike Lee, Tracy Morgan and Timothée Chalamet, made the journey to Cleveland to see them complete their victory. Lee is on an excellent run after his favorite soccer team, Arsenal, clinched their first Premier League title since 2004 last week.
“Knicks fans are a specific species of human that should be studied, they’re crazy,” said Knicks guard Landry Shamet. “They fly out to Cleveland on a Monday, they’re everywhere. Everywhere you walk in [New York City] that’s what you hear, the buzz is unbelievable. You could try to explain what’s going on for Knicks fans in New York right now, but good luck.”
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