The New York Knicks overcame a 17-point deficit to edge the Cleveland Cavaliers 126-124 in a thrilling NBA Christmas Day opener at Madison Square Garden. Jalen Brunson led the Knicks with 34 points, while Evan Mobley returned from injury to score 14 for the Cavaliers in the loss. The victory improves New York's record to 21-9, while Cleveland falls to 17-15.
The NBA's Christmas Day schedule kicked off with a high-stakes Eastern Conference clash between the New York Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers on December 25, 2025, at Madison Square Garden in New York. Tipoff was at noon ET, broadcast on ABC and ESPN, with streaming available on fubo.
Entering the game, the Knicks held a strong 20-9 record, boasting a 14-2 mark at home and leading the Atlantic Division. The Cavaliers, at 17-14 and second in the Central Division, had won their previous two games, including a 141-118 victory over New Orleans, but were coming off a season plagued by injuries and inconsistency, sitting seventh in the East with a 6-6 road record.
Evan Mobley, Cleveland's reigning Kia NBA Defensive Player of the Year, was listed as questionable with a strained left calf that had sidelined him for five games since December 12. However, the 23-year-old made a quicker-than-expected return, upgraded to available after progressing through practices. Coming off the bench, Mobley contributed 14 points on 6-for-8 shooting and nine rebounds in 25 minutes. Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson noted before the game, “One thing about Evan I’ve learned, he heals pretty quick. Like, he’s 23. Sometimes age is a factor in these things.” Mobley is averaging career highs of 19.1 points and 9.3 rebounds per game this season.
The Knicks, fresh off a 115-104 loss to Minnesota, rallied from 17 points down to secure the narrow victory. Jalen Brunson paced New York with 34 points, showcasing their home dominance. The all-time series favors the Knicks 122-109, though Cleveland had won four of the last five meetings. Betting odds had New York as a 5.5-point favorite with an over/under of 240.5 points.
This win provides momentum for the Knicks amid their strong start, while the Cavaliers, despite Mobley's boost and recent victories, continue to navigate injury challenges in a 17-15 season.
