The 2025 Christmas Day NBA matchup between the New York Knicks and the Cleveland Cavaliers delivered a thrilling contest at Madison Square Garden. In a spectacular comeback, the Knicks overcame a 17-point deficit, ultimately securing a nail-biting 126-124 victory, propelled by standout performances from Mitchell Robinson, Jalen Brunson, and Tyler Kolek in the final quarter.
New York’s Dramatic Comeback
The Knicks found themselves trailing by 17 points with just over ten minutes remaining in the game, as the Cavaliers appeared poised for a decisive victory. However, the atmosphere at Madison Square Garden shifted dramatically as New York launched a stunning comeback, achieving their largest turnaround of the season.
Mitchell Robinson played a critical role in this resurgence. Coming off the bench in the fourth quarter, Robinson dominated the boards, securing multiple offensive rebounds and providing his teammates with crucial second-chance opportunities. His efforts sparked a momentum shift, energizing the home crowd and altering the game’s dynamic.
Key Contributions from the Knicks’ Stars
Tyler Kolek also made his mark on the game, rising to the occasion as a sophomore guard. With teammates Miles McBride and Josh Hart sidelined due to injuries, Kolek capitalized on his expanded playing time. He showcased a versatile skill set—hitting three-pointers, making hustle plays, and displaying excellent offensive decision-making. Kolek scored 16 points, including 11 in the decisive fourth quarter, contributing significantly to the Knicks’ success.
Jalen Brunson, the Knicks’ MVP and the team’s leading scorer with 34 points, delivered a series of crucial shots in the final moments. His monumental three-pointer, which gave New York the lead with just one minute left on the clock, proved pivotal as Cleveland struggled to recover.
The Cavaliers, who initially controlled the match, have much to reflect on. Despite strong performances from Donovan Mitchell (34 points), Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Jaylon Tyson, they failed to maintain their advantage. A critical lapse during the second quarter, highlighted by a slew of turnovers, allowed New York to regain momentum. The Cavaliers’ inability to capitalize on their strong start ultimately cost them, ending their two-game winning streak.
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