Cavaliers vs. Knicks Game 2 – 2026 NBA ECF: Game Preview, Odds, and Injury Updates (May 21)

The New York Knicks found themselves in a massive hole during the opening game of the Eastern Conference Finals. 

After sitting out for over a week following their second-round sweep, New York fell behind by 22 points late in the fourth quarter. However, the energy in Manhattan flipped entirely in the final minutes. 

Behind a collective run, the Knicks forced overtime and completely shut down Cleveland in the extra time to escape with a 1-0 series lead. Jalen Brunson, however, put together an iconic postseason performance to single-handedly rescue New York. 

The 29-year-old guard exploded for 38 points, relentlessly attacking the perimeter and hitting the game-tying bucket with 19 seconds remaining in regulation. 

Brunson received a massive boost from the returning OG Anunoby, who shook off early hamstring rust to chip in 13 points, while Mikal Bridges added 18. With the Garden crowd fully energized, the Knicks have a prime opportunity to protect their home floor once more before the series shifts to Ohio.

For the Cleveland Cavaliers, Game 1 was a devastating psychological blow. Donovan Mitchell was brilliant for three quarters, finishing with 29 points and six steals, while James Harden orchestrated the offense with 15 points. 

Cleveland executed their game plan perfectly to build a 93-71 cushion, only to watch their offense completely fall off a cliff down the stretch, scoring just 3 points in overtime. Head coach Kenny Atkinson faces the tough task of restoring his team’s confidence ahead of Thursday’s tip-off, knowing they cannot afford a 2-0 deficit against a surging New York squad.

What Are The Betting Lines For The Cavaliers vs. Knicks Game?

• Moneyline: Knicks -234, Cavaliers +192
• Spread: Knicks -6.5 (-107), Cavaliers +6.5 (-112)
• Total: Over 214.5 points (-115), Under 214.5 points (-105)

The betting odds are subject to change.