NBA Finals Preview: Knicks vs. Thunder or Spurs – Who Will End Their 27-Year Drought? Key Matchups & Playoff Takeaways: Thunder-Spurs vs. Knicks-Cavs Clash

The New York Knicks have returned to the NBA Finals for the first time since 1999 after completing a four-game sweep of the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference Finals. The historic victory caps an unprecedented 30-game winning streak and an 11-game point differential of +262—the largest in NBA history over that span—setting the stage for a potential championship run that would end the franchise’s 53-year title drought.

The Sweep That Changed Everything

The Knicks’ dominance in the series was absolute. Three times in these playoffs, New York had a chance to close out an opponent on the road—and three times, they finished the game with the opposition’s season over before the fourth quarter even began. After stumbling to a 2-1 deficit in the first round against the Atlanta Hawks, the Knicks transformed into a juggernaut, outscoring opponents by an average of nearly 24 points per game in their final 11 victories.

The Cavaliers, despite starting Game 4 with an 8-2 lead and Donovan Mitchell scoring 12 of his 31 points in the first quarter, could not contain the Knicks’ relentless offence. Cleveland’s fatigue from back-to-back seven-game series in the first two rounds may have played a role, but the Knicks’ talent and execution proved decisive. The Cavs’ season ended with four straight double-digit defeats, including a 40-point blowout in Game 4.

Who Are These Knicks?

The team’s success is built on a rare combination of depth, versatility, and leadership. Jalen Brunson, who arrived as a free agent four years ago, has been the franchise’s cornerstone, but the roster’s two-way wings—OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, and Josh Hart—provide defensive lockdown and offensive firepower. Karl-Anthony Towns and Mitchell Robinson offer multiple ways to attack the rim, while Landry Shamet and Deuce McBride deliver clutch three-point shooting and defense off the bench.

This Knicks team mirrors the scrappy, defensive-minded squads of the 1990s led by Patrick Ewing, as well as the championship groups of the 1970s. Their ability to share the ball, rotate seamlessly, and thrive in pressure moments has fans dreaming of a long-overdue title. Yet, the road ahead remains daunting: the NBA Finals await, where they will face either the Oklahoma City Thunder or the San Antonio Spurs—both far more experienced in high-stakes playoff matchups.

Did You Know?

The Knicks’ 30-game winning streak is the longest in franchise history, surpassing their previous best of 19 consecutive victories in the 1993-94 season. Their +262 point differential over 11 games is the highest in NBA history, regular season or playoffs combined.

Expert Insight

The Knicks’ rise is a masterclass in playoff resilience. After collapsing in Game 2 of the first round, they not only righted the ship but redefined what it means to dominate a series. Their success hinges on three pillars: defensive intensity, three-point shooting, and the ability to neutralize elite players. However, the Finals will test whether this team can sustain that level of play against a team with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander or Victor Wembanyama—both of whom have the individual talent to dictate games. If the Knicks can contain one star while maintaining their offensive efficiency, history could be made. If not, their dream run may end as abruptly as it began.

The Western Conference: Thunder vs. Spurs

While the Knicks celebrate, the Western Conference Finals remain a battle for the ages. The Oklahoma City Thunder, defending champions, face the San Antonio Spurs in a clash of the top two seeds. Game 5 proved that the Thunder’s depth could carry them when their stars underperformed. Alex Caruso delivered 20 points and six assists, Isaiah Hartenstein grabbed 15 rebounds, and Jared McCain—making his first playoff start—scored 18 points in the second half to seal a 2-2 series tie.

Game 6 on Thursday will be elimination for the Spurs, who have never lost a series after trailing 2-2 in the postseason. Victor Wembanyama, who has been the Spurs’ anchor, will need to answer the call after a lackluster Game 5. Meanwhile, Oklahoma City’s bench—particularly Caruso and McCain—has become the series’ MVP, forcing San Antonio to adjust its game plan. The Spurs will need to tighten their defense around Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and improve on the glass to avoid a swift exit.

What’s Next for the Knicks?

The Knicks now have eight days to rest and prepare for the NBA Finals, which begin on June 3 against the Thunder or Spurs. Their path is far from guaranteed—both opponents have the firepower to disrupt their offence—but New York’s confidence is at an all-time high. The city’s streets, which flooded with blue and orange after the Cavaliers sweep, will once again fill with hope as fans ask: *Could this finally be the year?*

Frequently Asked Questions

When was the last time the Knicks reached the NBA Finals?

The Knicks last appeared in the NBA Finals in 1999, where they lost to the San Antonio Spurs in five games.

How did the Knicks turn their season around after a slow start?

After losing back-to-back games in the first round, the Knicks went on a 30-game winning streak, including 11 straight victories with a +262 point differential—the largest in NBA history over that span.

Who are the key players for the Knicks in the Finals?

Jalen Brunson leads the offence, while OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, and Josh Hart provide two-way wing play. Karl-Anthony Towns and Mitchell Robinson anchor the paint, and Landry Shamet and Deuce McBride offer bench scoring and defense.

What’s the biggest challenge facing the Knicks in the Finals?

Their biggest challenge will be containing either Shai Gilgeous-Alexander or Victor Wembanyama, both of whom can single-handedly dictate games. The Knicks’ ability to defend elite players while maintaining their offensive rhythm will determine their success.