Knicks rally past Cavaliers in Game 1 as Brunson exploits Harden

James Harden’s defensive shortcomings stood out in the Cleveland Cavaliers’ Game 1 loss to the New York Knicks on Tuesday night.

The Cavaliers led by as many as 22 points before Jalen Brunson guided the Knicks to a 115-104 overtime victory. Brunson finished with 38 points, including several key baskets in the fourth quarter while Harden guarded him.

Harden gave the Cavaliers the lead with seconds remaining, but Brunson answered to tie the score. Cleveland’s Sam Merrill had a chance to win the game at the end of regulation, yet his shot rolled around the rim and out.

New York then outscored Cleveland 14-3 in overtime to complete the comeback.

Harden had 15 points, four rebounds and three assists, but he also committed six turnovers and finished minus-6 on the floor. NBA fans criticized Harden for his lack of defensive impact when it mattered most, a complaint that has followed him throughout his career.

Knicks head coach Mike Brown said after the game that the plan was to attack Harden.

"There is no secret: We were attacking Harden," Brown said. "Sometimes you’ve got to do what the game dictates, and they were trying to do the same thing with Jalen, so we said, ‘OK, we feel like we can play that game.’ We try not to play that game much, but we feel like we have a guy that we can play that game with in Jalen."

Harden credited Brunson with making difficult plays late.

"He made some tough ones, but we obviously all know he’s a great 1-on-1 player," Harden said. "Anybody on an island, it’s going to be difficult, so we’ve got to do a better job of making sure he sees bodies. On the other hand, they do a good job at supporting him and helping him when he’s on an island. He made some tough ones, but we’ve got to do a better job as a team."

Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson said the team made adjustments that failed to stop Brunson.

"We started sending two at him, getting the ball out of his hands, full rotating," Atkinson said. "James was good most of the game. Listen, we weren’t great defensively in the fourth quarter."

Atkinson said he never considered removing Harden from the defensive assignment.

"Listen, he’s been one of our best defenders and a big player in the playoffs," Atkinson said. "I trust him. He’s smart, great hands."

Game 2 is scheduled for Thursday night at 8 p.m. ET at Madison Square Garden.