Cavs at Knicks Game 2: How to watch, odds, and injury report
The Cavs will look to bounce back in Game 2.
NEW YORK, NY - MAY 19: Jarrett Allen #31 of the Cleveland Cavaliers drives to the basket during the game against the New York Knicks during Game One of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals on May 19, 2026 at Madison Square Garden in New York City, New York. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Brian Babineau/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images The Cleveland Cavaliers have had many demoralizing playoff losses in the past four seasons.
Game 1 against the New York Knicks was among the worst. After proving through 40 minutes that they’re more than ready for the bright lights of the conference finals and a road game at Madison Square Garden, they reverted to their old ways. The offense got stagnant.
The defense left much to be desired. And questionable coaching decisions cost them. Fortunately for the Cavs, they have a chance to put that all behind them.
The goal at the start of the series was to split one of the first two on the road. Bouncing back and winning on Thursday wouldn’t erase the mistakes of Game 1, but it would get them into the driver’s seat of the series with the action shifting to Cleveland for Game 3. We’ll see if this Cavs team can put that bad loss behind them.