Yardbarker
x
Knicks' epic ECF Game 1 comeback sets new franchise record
New York Knicks guard Jalen Brunson. Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Knicks' epic ECF Game 1 comeback sets new franchise record

By Mike J. Asti  |  Last updated May 20, 2026 12:48 AM ET
Google Add us as a preferred source on Google

Adding more fodder to the belief that the Knicks are a team of destiny, New York won Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals in historic fashion.

Trailing the Cleveland Cavaliers 48-46 at halftime and then by double digits throughout most of the second half, Jalen Brunson led the Knicks on an epic comeback for the ages. 

Mounting a 22-point comeback with about eight minutes left, the Knicks beat the Cavaliers 115-104 to claim a 1-0 series lead. 

Knicks made franchise history with a 22-point comeback to open the ECF 

The Knicks' "never say die" attitude set a new standard for franchise history, becoming the largest playoff comeback in New York history. New York secured the game by going on a 44-11 run that extended across the fourth quarter and overtime. 

Brunson led the way, scoring 17 of his 38 total points in the final 12:49. He shot 51.7% from the field in the game and added five rebounds, six assists and three steals as well.

His performance marked his fourth game with at least 30 points during the Knicks' dominating postseason run and one shy of the 39 he put up in the first round against the Atlanta Hawks on April 28. 

Becoming the key to the new-look Knicks offense in the playoffs, Karl-Anthony Towns recorded another double-double with 13 points and 13 rebounds while also dishing out five assists. 

Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns enjoyed help from New York's role players 

Helping Brunson and Towns, Mikal Bridges hit a pair of two big threes as part of his 18 points, and Josh Hart posted 13 points and brought down seven boards of his own. 

Even though a historic comeback still only counts as one win, Knicks fans will honor what happened in Game 1 forever if New York ends up reaching the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999 and/or claiming the organization's first NBA championship since 1973. 

Mike J. Asti
X

Mike Asti is an experienced media personality and journalist with a vast resume and skillset, most notably from time with TribLIVE Radio and WPXI-TV. Asti now serves as the Managing Editor of WV Sports Now, where he leads the coverage of WVU sports. He has also covered the Steelers, Penguins, Pirates and other teams within the Pittsburgh market

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

Yardbarker +

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA.