Knicks Dominate Cavaliers 130-93, Head To Finals For First Time Since 1999

The New York Knicks dominated the Cleveland Cavaliers 130-93 in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals to clinch their first NBA Finals berth since 1999. Jalen Brunson led the way with a stellar performance, earning unanimous Eastern Conference Finals MVP honors. The Knicks will face either the Oklahoma City Thunder or the San Antonio Spurs in the 2026 NBA Finals.

Brunson finished with 32 points, 8 assists, and 5 rebounds in a commanding display of poise and efficiency. The Knicks controlled the game from the start, building a 20-point lead by halftime and never looking back. Julius Randle added 18 points and 10 rebounds off the bench, while OG Anunoby chipped in 15 points and 7 steals, showcasing his defensive dominance.

The Knicks have now won 11 consecutive games dating back to their first-round series against the Atlanta Hawks. After a thrilling comeback in Game 1 of the series when they erased a 22-point fourth-quarter deficit, New York never trailed again. The team’s offensive efficiency was staggering, shooting 56% from the field and 48% from three-point range.

Brunson’s leadership has been the driving force behind this playoff run. "It means a lot [to lead the Knicks to Finals]," Brunson said. "I wouldn't be here without my teammates. The belief they've had in me. This coaching staff. This organization. This fan base. Without them none of this is possible."

After parting ways with head coach Tom Thibodeau following a runner-up finish in the 2025 Eastern Conference Finals, the Knicks hired Mike Brown, who has guided the team through a high-stakes playoff run. The Knicks’ star-studded roster includes Brunson, Randle, Josh Hart, Mikal Bridges, and Karl-Anthony Towns, all acquired through a combination of trades and free agency.

The Knicks’ path to the Finals wasn’t built on a single blockbuster move. In 2022, they signed Brunson as a free agent after striking out on Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant in 2019. They traded for Randle in 2021, who became an All-NBA performer and helped set the stage for Brunson’s arrival. The team later acquired Hart, Anunoby, and Towns, sacrificing Randle and Donte DiVincenzo in the process.

Game 1 of the NBA Finals will take place on Wednesday, June 3rd. The Knicks are currently +220 to win the title, with bookmakers giving them a 31 percent chance to hoist the Larry O'Brien Trophy.