Cavs’ surge continues as Harden’s poise guides 109-94 win over Knicks
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The Cleveland Cavaliers leaned on James Harden’s steadiness Tuesday night, defeating the New York Knicks 109-94 at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.
The victory lifted Cleveland to 37-22 and marked its 13th win in the past 15 games. Head coach Kenny Atkinson credited Harden, acquired earlier this month, for giving the team a sense of control.
“His composure, calmness—he’s just got a command of the game. That settles everybody down,” Atkinson said after the game. “He knows where the ball has to go and the end-of-game stuff. Sharp, sharp player.”
Harden scored 20 points, but his influence was felt most in the Cavaliers’ measured offensive approach. Even when the Knicks attempted to speed up the pace with physical play, Cleveland stayed patient and deliberate.
The Cavs’ defense took over after halftime. Cleveland limited New York to 11 third-quarter points and forced a 3-for-24 shooting stretch that erased any comeback hopes. A scoring burst was unnecessary; disciplined execution was enough to extend the lead.
Knicks head coach Mike Brown summed up the contest succinctly: “Ugly game.” For the Cavaliers, winning ugly was acceptable, especially with Harden and Donovan Mitchell—considered one of the league’s toughest backcourt duos—controlling tempo.
With Harden running the offense and Atkinson emphasizing patience, Cleveland continues to collect victories without relying on spectacular scoring nights, instead winning with composure and defensive pressure.
Source: Hoops Wire
