Knicks overpower Cavaliers, take 2-0 East Finals lead

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Knicks overpower Cavaliers, take 2-0 East Finals lead image

Photo by Sarah Stier/Getty Images

By Rafael Bandayrel

The New York Knicks took a commanding 2-0 lead over the Cleveland Cavaliers after pulling away for a 109-93 victory in Game 2 of the Eastern Conference Finals on Friday (PH time) at Madison Square Garden.

It was a tightly contested first half, with New York carrying only a slim four-point lead into the break.

However, the Knicks completely seized control in the third quarter behind a devastating 18-0 run that swung the momentum firmly in their favor.

Cleveland refused to go away quietly, especially as New York battled foul trouble early in the fourth. The Cavaliers answered with eight straight points to cut the deficit to seven before OG Anunoby drilled a clutch three-pointer to steady the Knicks.

Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images

The Cavs continued trying to claw their way back, but New York consistently answered with timely baskets. Josh Hart hit a momentum-shifting mid-range jumper before Jalen Brunson erupted for seven consecutive points to stretch the lead to 19 with just over three minutes remaining, effectively sealing the win.

All five Knicks starters scored in double figures in a balanced effort.

Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images

Hart led the way with 26 points, seven assists, and four rebounds. Karl-Anthony Towns added another double-double with 18 points and 13 rebounds, while Brunson and Mikal Bridges each scored 19. Anunoby chipped in 14 points.

Now holding a 2-0 series lead, the Knicks will head to Cleveland looking to move within one win of the NBA Finals when Game 3 tips off on Sunday.

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