Knicks Edge Out Cavaliers in Season Opener at Madison Square Garden

NEW YORK — The New York Knicks started their 2025-26 NBA season with a victory, defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers 119-111 at Madison Square Garden on Wednesday night.

In a game filled with highs and lows, the Knicks established a 17-point lead in the first half, only to see the Cavaliers claw their way back. Cleveland’s star, Donovan Mitchell, sparked a rally, scoring 21 of his game-high 31 points during a dynamic third quarter that tied the game at 87.

The Knicks regained control early in the fourth period with a 14-0 run. Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 24 points and seven assists, while Karl-Anthony Towns contributed 22 points and eight rebounds. Deuce McBride added 15 points off the bench, highlighting the depth of the new-look Knicks.

The Cavaliers, hampered by injuries to key players, struggled to keep pace. Darius Garland, Max Strus, and DeAndre Hunter were all sidelined, leaving Mitchell to shoulder most of the offensive burden.

The game flipped in the Knicks’ favor thanks to their versatile bench and the coaching strategies of Mike Brown. “Our expectations are extremely high,” Brown said. “But we’re not going to get ahead of ourselves. It’s one game.”

The Knicks displayed hustle on both ends of the court, transitioning quickly from defense to offense and keeping the Cavaliers on their heels. Defensive plays by players like Mikail Bridges and McBride allowed New York to create fastbreak opportunities.

Evan Mobley and Sam Merrill helped the Cavaliers counter with 22 points and 19 points, respectively, but their efforts fell short as the Knicks maintained a steady lead in the final minutes.

Next up, the Cavaliers will visit the Brooklyn Nets on Friday, while the Knicks will host the Boston Celtics on the same night.