Knicks secure first NBA Finals berth since 1999 after sweeping Cavaliers
New York’s strategic overhaul, centred on Jalen Brunson and Mike Brown, overcomes a turbulent start to reach the championship series.
The New York Knicks have advanced to the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999, completing an 11-game playoff winning streak with a 4-0 series sweep of the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference Finals. This achievement marks the franchise’s first appearance in the championship round since 1973, ending a decades-long drought defined by high-profile failures to build a sustainable contender.
The run was catalysed by decisive administrative and coaching changes initiated by owner James Dolan and President of Basketball Operations Leon Rose. In June 2024, Dolan replaced head coach Tom Thibodeau with Mike Brown, citing concerns that Thibodeau’s demanding style caused player burnout during previous series losses. Brown, who had been dismissed by the Sacramento Kings and Cleveland Cavaliers in recent years, has since stabilised the roster and guided the team through a challenging postseason.
Central to the Knicks’ success is the leadership of Jalen Brunson, who was named Eastern Conference Finals MVP. Brunson is one of only two players 6-foot-2 or under, alongside Isiah Thomas and Stephen Curry, to serve as the undisputed headliner for a championship-contending team. The front office executed a roster overhaul to maximise his strengths, including trading five first-round picks for Mikal Bridges, acquiring Josh Hart and OG Anunoby, and trading for Karl-Anthony Towns on the eve of training camp in 2024.
The team’s trajectory defied early-season expectations. In January, Dolan publicly stated the team should win the Finals, a claim that appeared improbable given a 2-9 record from late December to mid-January. The Knicks overcame a 22-point fourth-quarter deficit in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals against Cleveland, winning in overtime, and have since won their last 11 playoff games by double-digit margins, including victories over Atlanta by 51 points, Philadelphia by 30, and Cleveland by 37.
Brunson’s emergence contrasts with the franchise’s history of chasing high-profile stars such as Stephon Marbury, Amar’e Stoudemire, and Carmelo Anthony, often without a discernable plan. By resisting the temptation to pursue further star power, such as signing Giannis Antetokounmpo, the Knicks maintained a structured approach. Towns noted the team’s resilience, stating they can overcome any situation as long as they continue to believe in their goal and lean on each other.
