Both the No. 3 New York Knicks and the No. 4 Cleveland Cavaliers entered the 2025-26 regular season with high hopes of reaching the Eastern Conference finals.
However, they faced challenges: the injury-hit Raptors pushed the Cavaliers to seven games, while the Knicks nearly faltered in the first round against the Atlanta Hawks before Cleveland lost the first two games of their second-round matchup against the 60-win, top-seeded Detroit Pistons.
Both teams found their stride: the Knicks are currently on a seven-game winning streak, outscoring opponents by a record 185 points. The Cavaliers, who hadn’t won a road game prior to their series against the Pistons, clinched their last two away contests, including a decisive 125-94 victory in Game 7. With star power on their side, this series promises to be competitive.
The Knicks reached this stage last season but fell to the Indiana Pacers (another 3-4 matchup) in six games, a loss that led to coach Tom Thibodeau’s dismissal. Now under the guidance of Mike Brown, the Knicks aim for their first NBA Finals appearance since 1999, when they were defeated by the San Antonio Spurs in five games.
This marks the Cavaliers’ first conference finals since 2018 (their last of four consecutive) and their first without LeBron James since 1992. All-Star Donovan Mitchell is making his first conference finals appearance in his nine-year career. To surpass the hot Knicks, he and backcourt partner James Harden must perform exceptionally well.
Why Did the Knicks and Cavaliers Win Their Second-Round Series?
James Edwards III on the Knicks: The Knicks re-emerged as a dominant team after facing a 2-1 deficit against the Hawks in the first round. Alongside the San Antonio Spurs, they are the only playoff teams ranking in the top three for points scored and allowed per 100 possessions. In the second round, they overpowered Philadelphia with superior shooting and tenacious defense, making the 76ers look lifeless by the end.
Fred Katz on the Knicks: The 76ers appeared fatigued, injured, and lacking depth, heavily relying on just six players throughout the series. In contrast, the Knicks looked rejuvenated, with Karl-Anthony Towns excelling, Jalen Brunson delivering high scoring with exceptional efficiency, and Mikal Bridges effectively shutting down Tyrese Maxey. Key role players stepped up, resulting in a sweep that showcased their dominance.
Tony Jones on the Knicks: The Knicks were significantly better than the 76ers, leading to major organizational changes in the latter. Questions about Brown’s earlier coaching decisions dissipated as they solidified their playoff strength. Their improved depth and versatility make them strong contenders for the conference finals and a potential threat to win the NBA championship.
