Brunson and Knicks Rally Past Cavaliers in Christmas Day Thriller.

Jalen Brunson delivered a standout performance on Christmas Day, scoring 34 points to lead the New York Knicks to a dramatic 126–124 comeback victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers at Madison Square Garden. The win marked the Knicks’ third consecutive Christmas Day victory and highlighted the impact of New York’s bench in the closing minutes.

Down by as many as 17 points early in the fourth quarter, the Knicks turned to their reserves for energy and execution. Jordan Clarkson scored 25 points off the bench, while rookie Tyler Kolek added 16 points and nine assists. Kolek energized the crowd with a crucial late defensive play, blocking Donovan Mitchell and having the initial foul call overturned after video review. Mitchell Robinson also played a key role, grabbing 13 rebounds and extending multiple possessions with his hustle on the offensive glass. Brunson sealed the comeback by hitting the go-ahead three-pointer with 1:05 remaining. He, Kolek, and Clarkson combined for a decisive 13–2 run that erased Cleveland’s 12-point lead and put New York ahead for good. Donovan Mitchell led the Cavaliers with 34 points, seven rebounds, and six assists. Darius Garland contributed 20 points and 10 assists, while Evan Mobley finished with 14 points and nine rebounds in his return after missing five games with a strained left calf. Despite strong performances, Cleveland was unable to close out the game and fell short of its third straight win.

The Cavaliers dominated early, racing to an 18–3 lead and finishing the first quarter ahead 38–23. New York responded in the second quarter with a scoring surge, highlighted by Clarkson’s consecutive three-pointers and an 18–0 run that briefly gave the Knicks the lead. Cleveland regained control in the third quarter, but New York’s late rally completed one of the most memorable comebacks of the NBA season.