In a stunning turn of events, the Cleveland Cavaliers blew a 22-point lead in the fourth quarter of Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the New York Knicks, losing 115-104. The collapse has been attributed to a strategic defensive adjustment by Knicks head coach Mike Brown, who admitted after the game that he specifically targeted Cavaliers guard James Harden.
Brown revealed that he instructed his players to double-team Harden on every possession, forcing the ball out of his hands and disrupting Cleveland's offensive rhythm. The strategy paid off as the Cavaliers scored only three points in the final eight minutes of the game, allowing the Knicks to mount a historic comeback.
Harden, who had been dominant in the first three quarters, was held scoreless in the fourth quarter and committed two crucial turnovers. The loss puts the Cavaliers in a 1-0 series deficit as they look to regroup for Game 2.
The Knicks' victory was led by Julius Randle, who finished with 32 points and 12 rebounds, while Jalen Brunson added 28 points. The series continues on Thursday night in Cleveland.
