The New York Knicks were defeated 107-90 by the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 2 of the first round of the playoffs. The series is currently knotted 1-1, and the next game will be played in New York.
The Knicks managed to win Game 1 on the road, but Game 2 was a different story. The Cavaliers started strong, seizing control of the game early and dominating it throughout. The Knicks sought to cut into the deficit but were unable to launch a comeback.
The Cavaliers expressed their need to come out strong in this game, and they did just that. They set the tone early and managed to keep the Knicks at bay throughout the game. The Knicks needed to focus on rebounding and their bench, just as they did in Game 1, to try and secure a 2-0 lead in the series.
Both teams started slowly in the first quarter, but the Knicks took an early lead. However, the Cavaliers began to knock jumpers from beyond the arc, and the Knicks’ defense began to stagnate. By the end of the first quarter, the Cavaliers had a three-point advantage.
Knicks struggle to find answers in Game 2 loss to Cavs
The Knicks labored on both ends of the field in the second quarter, as the Cavaliers began to pull away. The Knicks needed to score outside of isolated plays from Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle, but they couldn’t. The Cavaliers extended their lead in the second quarter, leading by 20 points.
The Knicks attempted a comeback in the third quarter, but their efforts were unable to close the margin. The Cavaliers continued to dominate on both ends of the court, leaving the Knicks down by 22 points at the half.
The Knicks needed a miracle to get back into the game in the fourth quarter, but it was not to be. The Cavaliers maintained their dominance, as the Knicks failed to stage a comeback. The Knicks were down by 17 points at the end of the game.
The series goes to Madison Square Garden
The Knicks will now look to bounce back in Game 3, which will take place at Madison Square Garden on Friday at 8:30 pm. The team will need to regroup and focus on rebounding and their bench to secure a victory and take the lead in the series.
