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Brunson’s 34 Points Propel Knicks Past Cavaliers on Christmas

12/26/2025

40 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Brunson Leads Knicks

Jalen Brunson (Knicks guard) scored 34 points to lead a 126-124 Christmas Day win over the Cavaliers, overcoming a 17-point fourth-quarter deficit.
Jordan Clarkson (Cavaliers guard) and Tyler Kolek (Cavaliers) came off the bench for 25 and 16 points.
Mitchell Robinson (Knicks center) added eight offensive rebounds for late-second chances.
The Knicks improved to 21-9 and moved to second in the Eastern Conference, while the Cavaliers fell to 17-15.

Summary

Kolek Sparks Comeback

Kolek delivered a crucial block on Donovan Mitchell overturned after a review, energizing the Knicks in a Christmas Day win over Cleveland Cavaliers.
He scored 11 of his 16 points in the fourth quarter to help erase a 17-point deficit.
Following a rebound, he assisted Mikal Bridges for a jumper that gave a late lead.
The performance solidifies Tyler Kolek's role as a vital contributor under coach Mike Brown.

History

Historical Context

The NBA has hosted Christmas Day games annually since 1947, with the New York Knicks participating more than any other team. In the 1994 NBA Finals, the Knicks, led by Patrick Ewing, overcame a 2-0 deficit against the Houston Rockets, showcasing their resilience. This legacy continued in 2022 when the Knicks rallied from a 17-point deficit against the Cavaliers, reinforcing their competitive spirit during the holiday season.

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Brunson Leads Knicks

Jalen Brunson (Knicks guard) scored 34 points to lead a 126-124 Christmas Day win over the Cavaliers, overcoming a 17-point fourth-quarter deficit.
Jordan Clarkson (Cavaliers guard) and Tyler Kolek (Cavaliers) came off the bench for 25 and 16 points.
Mitchell Robinson (Knicks center) added eight offensive rebounds for late-second chances.
The Knicks improved to 21-9 and moved to second in the Eastern Conference, while the Cavaliers fell to 17-15.

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