The New York Knicks have taken a commanding 2-1 series lead in their best of seven matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers, after a dominant 99-79 victory at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks came out of the gates firing, taking a double-digit lead in the first quarter and never looking back.
The Knicks were led by Julius Randle, who had a game-high 24 points and 10 rebounds. Randle was efficient from the field, shooting 8-14 from the field and 8-9 from the free throw line. He was also a force on defense, recording two blocks and two steals. Randle was ably supported by Derrick Rose, who had 20 points and five assists, and RJ Barrett, who had 18 points and seven rebounds.
The Cavaliers were unable to keep up with the Knicks’ offensive onslaught, shooting just 35% from the field and 28% from three-point range. Collin Sexton led the Cavaliers with 21 points, but he was inefficient, shooting just 8-20 from the field. The Cavaliers also struggled to contain the Knicks’ offense, as they allowed New York to shoot 47% from the field and 41% from three-point range.
The Knicks’ victory was a statement win for a team that is looking to make a deep run in the playoffs. They have now taken a 2-1 series lead over a Cavaliers team that many expected to be a tough out in the first round. The Knicks will look to take a 3-1 lead when they face off against the Cavaliers in Game 4 on Saturday night.
