NBA Eastern Conference Finals Prediction: New York Knicks – Cleveland Cavaliers (22-05-2026)

The New York Knicks return to Madison Square Garden for Game 2 after taking a 1-0 series lead in dramatic fashion against Cleveland.

At one stage during the fourth quarter, the Knicks were trailing 73-93 before producing a huge comeback and eventually winning 115-104 after overtime.

That result may also shift some additional pressure onto Cleveland heading into the second game of the NBA playoff series.

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New York already looked increasingly stronger as the NBA playoffs progressed before this series even started.

The Knicks were pushed harder by Atlanta earlier in the playoffs, but looked far more convincing offensively against Philadelphia.

Cleveland, meanwhile, had to battle through difficult playoff series against both Toronto and Detroit before reaching the conference finals.

Game 1 also showed how dangerous New York can become once their offense finds rhythm at home.

Even after falling behind by 20 points during the fourth quarter, the Knicks still managed to completely swing momentum back in their favour and closed overtime comfortably.

The regular season meetings also favour New York at home.

New York already defeated Cleveland Cavaliers twice at Madison Square Garden this season, while Cleveland’s only win against the Knicks came at home back in February.

Road form also remains an important factor here.

Across both previous NBA playoff series combined, Cleveland managed to win only two road games overall, while New York continued looking far more comfortable offensively on their own floor.

Considering the comeback victory in Game 1, home court advantage and Cleveland’s road struggles throughout the postseason, New York still look well positioned to cover this line again.