The NBA Eastern Conference Finals moves to a pivotal Game 2 on Friday (AEST) after the Cleveland Cavaliers squandered a 22-point lead to lose in overtime in the opening game. The New York Knicks will be full of confidence as they look to make it 2-0 at home. We bring our preview and best bet for Game 2!
NBA Playoffs Betting Tips: Friday, May 22nd 2026
Cleveland Cavaliers at New York Knicks (10:00am AEST)
Game 1 had to be seen to be believed as the Cleveland Cavaliers were in cruise control, leading by 22 points in the fourth quarter against the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. Jalen Brunson was enormous down the stretch, scoring 38 points in the 115-104 OT win. Brunson and his Knicks teammates consistently attacked James Harden in the fourth quarter, exposing Harden’s struggling defense to outscore the Cavs 44-11.
Expect the same in Game 2, with the Knicks trying to make Harden guard the primary ball handler as much as possible during offensive sets. It was a team effort in the opening game with Josh Hart, OG Anunoby, Karl-Anthony Towns, Mikal Bridges and Landry Shamet all scoring when their number was called. For the Cavaliers, Donovan Mitchell scored 29 points but received little support from Harden who finished with 5-16 shooting and 1-8 from deep.
Both teams committed 40 turnovers combined, so expect both sides to look to take better care of the basketball. The Knicks should have an edge on the glass and they are a much better defensive team. After such a heartbreaking loss, it could prove hard for the Cavs to bounce back here and the Knicks will try to make a statement before the series shifts to Cleveland. The Knicks at the line appeals in this contest.
Knicks -6.5
$1.95 (2 Units)
