New York Knicks steamroll Spurs and Cavaliers in 2026 playoffs

The New York Knicks posted an 8‑1 record against the San Antonio Spurs and the Cleveland Cavaliers en route to the 2026 NBA Finals. Statistical analysis showed the Knicks out‑shot the Cavaliers (58.5% vs 49.8% effective field goal) and dominated rebounding, holding Cleveland to a 26.5% offensive rebound rate while securing 34.8% of their own misses. Against the Spurs, New York’s edge came on the glass, grabbing 33.2% of its misses compared with San Antonio’s 28.6%.

Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson remarked, “Analytically … we’re two out of three in the expected (score),” while guard James Harden admitted, “They dominated us 4‑0… I do feel like we are the better team.” The Knicks’ ability to adjust shooting percentages after slow starts and maintain defensive pressure allowed them to win each series despite early disadvantages.

Coach Mike Brown’s varied lineups and the team’s full‑court stamina contributed to the Knicks’ run, which analysts describe as one of the most dominant playoff performances in recent NBA history.