2026 NBA Finals: New York Knicks vs. San Antonio Spurs Takeaways
The New York Knicks currently hold a 2-1 lead over the San Antonio Spurs in the 2026 NBA Finals. After stealing home-court advantage with two road wins, the Knicks saw their 13-game winning streak end with a 115-111 loss in Game 3 at Madison Square Garden, led by Victor Wembanyama’s 32 points.
How did the 2026 NBA Finals begin?
The New York Knicks took an early grip on the series by winning the first two games in San Antonio. They secured Game 1 with a 105-95 victory and followed it with a narrow 105-104 win on Friday to take a 2-0 lead.
According to reports from Vincent Goodwill, the Knicks’ road success placed them in an elite group. They are only the third team to win the first two Finals games on the road, joining the 1993 Chicago Bulls and 1995 Houston Rockets, both of whom eventually won their titles.
The San Antonio Spurs, appearing in their first Finals since 2014, struggled early. In Game 1, they lost their historical 6-0 record in Finals openers, according to Michael C. Wright, as the Knicks outscored them 50-42 in the paint.
Why did the Spurs win Game 3?
San Antonio shifted its approach in Game 3, prioritizing unselfish play to secure a 115-111 win at Madison Square Garden. Coach Mitch Johnson emphasized a return to their normal brand of basketball, which resulted in 28 assists—a significant jump from the 14 assists they averaged in the first two games.
Victor Wembanyama dominated the outing with 32 points, eight rebounds, and three blocks. This performance helped the Spurs finally close out a game after previously holding double-digit leads in the first quarters of earlier contests.
The Knicks struggled to sustain leads in the second half. While Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby combined for 60 of New York’s 111 points, the team could not frustrate Wembanyama as effectively as they did in San Antonio.
What is the significance of Victor Wembanyama’s performance?
Wembanyama is establishing historic defensive benchmarks. With three blocks in Game 3, he has reached 70 blocks this postseason, according to ESPN Research. This surpasses Dikembe Mutombo’s 69 blocks in 1994 for the most in a postseason debut since tracking began in 1974.
His offensive versatility is also proving critical. In Game 3, six different Spurs reached double figures in scoring, signaling a more balanced attack that the Knicks’ defense struggled to contain.
How could Game 4 change the series momentum?
The Knicks must now respond to their first loss in 46 days. Coach Mike Brown faces several challenges, as Jalen Brunson recorded five turnovers in Game 3, and players Mikal Bridges and Landry Shamet struggled offensively.
Karl-Anthony Towns may be the deciding factor. After playing like a “Finals MVP” during the first two games in San Antonio, Towns was held to 11 points, eight rebounds, and one assist in Game 3. He may need to reassert his presence for New York to regain control.
If the Spurs win Game 4 on Wednesday, the atmosphere in New York could shift from celebration to panic. However, Tim Bontemps suggests that current pressure on the Knicks may be an overreaction, as New York still maintains home-court advantage.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the last time the New York Knicks won an NBA Finals series?
The Knicks have not won an NBA Finals series since 1973.
What is Jalen Brunson’s record this postseason when scoring 30 or more points?
The Knicks are 6-0 this postseason when Brunson scores 30-plus points.
How many blocks has Victor Wembanyama recorded in his debut postseason?
Wembanyama has recorded 70 blocks this postseason.
Do you think the Spurs can overcome the 2-1 deficit, or will the Knicks’ home-court advantage be too much to handle?