After a 102-93 win on Sunday, the Knicks hold a 3-1 lead over the Cleveland Cavaliers and look poised for a deep playoff run. New York’s Jalen Bronson has solidified himself as a top-notch point guard, and Josh Hart has proven himself to be one of the league’s best two-way players.
Speaking of Hart’s play after Game 4, Bronson he told the media“He understands what is required of him and what he needs to do there. And he does. And he does more.”
Even in a series where Julius Randle struggled – averaging 14.8 points, seven rebounds and 5.5 assists – the Knicks were great, showing the depth of their roster.
New York wasn’t just a stellar offensive line. It’s a defensive marvel, too. In two home games, the Knicks have held the Cavs’ tally to 79 points and 93 points – hugely impressive for this era. Defensive-minded coach Tom Thibodeau made his voice heard and his presence felt in the dressing room.
The Knicks’ ability to slow down Cleveland’s best player, Donovan Mitchell – a great playoff prospect – is the biggest reason they took the lead in this series. The New York perimeter defenders held Mitchell to 22 points per game on 43.6% from the field and 30.3% from behind the arc.
FiveThirtyEight It gives the Knicks an 83% chance of advancing beyond the first round and a 33% chance (third best odds) of reaching the Eastern Conference Finals.
With Miami up 2-1 over top-seeded Milwaukee and Game 4 at home, the Heat could pull off a major upset. This plays into New York’s favor as the Knicks won the season series against Miami, 3-1, and would have the home-court advantage over the Heat.
Even if the Bucks come back and win the series, New York shouldn’t be discouraged. The Knicks have played Milwaukee three times this season, losing all three. But on January 3—the last time the two teams met—New York played Milwaukee close before losing, 111-107.
New York is clearly better now. The Knicks have never had Hart in any of their games against the Bucks, and when the stakes are high, Bronson can meet, if not exceed, expectations.
Knicks are not counted out of them First Conference Finals since 2000. Madison Square Garden and New York itself are buzzing with energy and gearing up for a playoff game.