CLEVELAND — In an impressive display, the Cleveland Cavaliers secured a commanding 124-105 victory over the New York Knicks on Wednesday night, with Donovan Mitchell leading the charge with 27 points. This win allows the Cavaliers to match the team’s second-highest number of wins in franchise history at 61, equal to the 2009-10 season. That particular season was notable as it marked the end of LeBron James’ first tenure with the team. The franchise’s record for most victories is 66 wins, set in the 2008-09 season.
The Cavaliers’ triumph, combined with Boston’s defeat by Miami, has given Cleveland a five-game cushion at the top of the Eastern Conference standings, with only six games left in the season. Despite trailing 60-53 at halftime, Cleveland seized control in the third quarter. Tied at 83, the Cavaliers rallied with a strong 15-2 run spanning the late third and early fourth quarters to establish a definitive lead.
Karl-Anthony Towns made a remarkable return for the Knicks, contributing 25 points, 13 rebounds, and seven turnovers. Towns had previously missed the previous night’s game due to knee discomfort. OG Anunoby also chipped in 23 points. Meanwhile, Jalen Brunson remains sidelined for New York, but the star guard has been cleared for basketball activities and is expected to return in the final week of the regular season.
This season, the Cavaliers have set a new franchise record by scoring at least 120 points in 44 games. Unfortunately, forward Dean Wade sat out this game due to illness. A pivotal moment came late in the third quarter when Cleveland initiated an eight-point surge, which included Isaac Okoro stealing the ball and completing a driving layup to increase the lead to 89-83.
In terms of statistics, Jarrett Allen demonstrated remarkable efficiency, shooting 31 of 34 in the Cavaliers’ recent home games. Both teams will be hitting the road for their next games: the Knicks are set to face Atlanta on Saturday, while the Cavaliers will challenge the Spurs on Thursday night.