The New York Knicks pitched in with a strong team effort to defeat the Cleveland Cavaliers 119-111 in the season opener on Wednesday.
The hometown team took control early as a packed Madison Square Garden oozed with excitement. O.G. Anunoby was strong on both ends of the floor as the Knicks’ offense jumped out to a ten point lead in the first quarter. While the offense cooled slightly in the second, a huge free throw advantage allowed them to extend their lead.
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The third quarter was when Cleveland really turned up the heat. Cavs guard Donovan Mitchell had the hot hand, putting up 21 of his 31 points in the third frame.
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Cleveland’s defense finally looked stronger after halftime, allowing the Cavs to outscore the Knicks by 15 in the third. With a tie game heading into the fourth, the Knicks went on a blistering 14-0 run to regain the lead and secure the eventual win.
For the Cavs, Mobley put up 22 points and eight boards to go along with Mitchell’s 31 points.
The Knicks’ scoring load was balanced as five players put up 15 points or more. Anunoby was New York’s best player with 24 points, 14 rebounds, three steals and a block.
New York will host the Boston Celtics on Friday while the Cavaliers will look to crack the win column as they travel to Brooklyn on Friday.
James Parker is a sports writer for Ball Exclusives, follow him on X @TheJames_Parker
