The Eastern Conference Finals opened with a dramatic and unexpected turn of events as the New York Knicks, fresh off a seven-game winning streak and a lengthy hiatus, secured a stunning 115-104 overtime victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 1 at Madison Square Garden. What began as a seemingly lifeless performance by the Knicks, characterized by a significant 22-point deficit in the fourth quarter and boos from their home crowd, transformed into one of the largest playoff comebacks in the play-by-play era, largely orchestrated by their captain, Jalen Brunson.

The Knicks' start was riddled with struggles, perhaps a consequence of their nine-day rest compared to the Cavaliers' grueling schedule of 11 games in 21 days across two prior seven-game series. They failed to establish an offensive or defensive rhythm, particularly from beyond the arc, where they shot a dismal 2-for-19 in the first half. This uninspired play allowed the Cavaliers to build a commanding lead, turning a two-point halftime deficit into a 14-point hole by the end of the third quarter, reaching its peak when the Knicks trailed 93-71 with just 7:39 left in regulation.

However, the tide dramatically shifted with Jalen Brunson's heroics. Brunson, who finished with 38 points, ignited the comeback by scoring 15 of his points in the fourth quarter. His aggressive play, repeatedly attacking James Harden, sparked an 18-1 run that rapidly narrowed the gap. Back-to-back three-pointers from Mikal Bridges further fueled the rally, bringing the Knicks within three. The improbable comeback culminated when Landry Shamet sank a corner three-pointer with 44.3 seconds remaining, tying the game and sending the Garden crowd into a frenzy. Despite a momentary lead regained by Harden and a missed three-point attempt by Sam Merrill at the buzzer, the Knicks forced overtime.

In the extra period, the Knicks, having shaken off their rust and rediscovered their competitive edge, dominated the exhausted Cavaliers. A decisive 9-0 run to start overtime cemented their control, and they pulled away for an 115-104 victory. This 44-11 surge from their lowest point showcased the grit and resiliency of the New York squad, but also served as a stark warning against repeating such a dangerous performance.

Post-game reflections highlighted both relief and a clear understanding of the need for consistency. Jalen Brunson expressed gratitude to the fans who stayed, while Karl-Anthony Towns acknowledged the initial rust but praised the team's ability to find themselves through their defense. Coach Mike Brown emphasized the importance of maintaining a competitive edge, which can be dulled by long breaks. While the dramatic win was exciting, the team recognized that relying on such incredible heroics is not a sustainable path to an NBA title, especially when facing a battle-tested opponent like the Cavaliers who, despite their fatigue, displayed formidable challenge.

The series now continues with the following schedule:

• Game 1: Knicks 115, Cleveland 104, OT
• Game 2: Cleveland at Knicks, Thursday (8 p.m. ET, ESPN)
• Game 3: Knicks at Cleveland, Saturday (8 p.m. ET, ABC)
• Game 4: Knicks at Cleveland, Monday, May 25 (8 p.m. ET, ESPN)
• *Game 5: Cleveland at Knicks, Wednesday, May 27 (8 p.m. ET, ESPN)
• *Game 6: Knicks at Cleveland, Friday, May 29 (8 p.m. ET, ESPN)
• *Game 7: Cleveland at Knicks, Sunday, May 31 (8 p.m. ET, ESPN)

(* if necessary)