The New York Knicks erased a 22-point fourth-quarter deficit to defeat the Cleveland Cavaliers 115-104 in overtime on May 20, 2026 [1], [2].
The victory gives New York a critical early lead in the NBA Eastern Conference Finals. This comeback marks one of the most significant late-game rallies in the series' history, shifting the momentum at Madison Square Garden [3], [2].
Jalen Brunson led the effort with 38 points [1]. His performance was decisive in the closing stages of the game, as he scored 17 of those points during the final eight minutes of regulation and overtime [2].
The Cavaliers appeared to have the game secured late in the fourth quarter. Cleveland held a 93-71 lead with 7:52 remaining in the period [5] — a gap that left the home crowd stunned before the New York surge began.
New York systematically chipped away at the lead, forcing the game into an overtime period. The Knicks maintained their composure in the extra frame to secure the 115-104 win [2].
The result puts Cleveland in a difficult position as the series progresses. The Cavaliers struggled to maintain their defensive intensity after holding a dominant lead for the majority of the contest [1].
“The New York Knicks erased a 22-point fourth-quarter deficit to defeat the Cleveland Cavaliers 115-104 in overtime.”
This result establishes a psychological advantage for the Knicks, proving they can overcome extreme deficits under high pressure. For the Cavaliers, the collapse highlights a vulnerability in closing out games against elite scorers like Brunson, which may dictate their tactical approach for the remainder of the Eastern Conference Finals.
