What happened: The New York Knicks moved within one victory of an NBA championship on Friday, edging the San Antonio Spurs 107-106. The win gives New York a 3-1 series lead, effectively narrowing the Finals MVP race to a handful of standout performers as the series returns to Madison Square Garden.
Why it matters: With New York on the brink of a title, the MVP discussion has shifted heavily toward the Knicks' core contributors who have anchored the team's postseason run. While Victor Wembanyama continues to put up historic numbers for San Antonio, the award almost exclusively goes to a member of the winning team, placing the spotlight on New York's leaders.
By the numbers: New York holds a 3-1 series lead after the 107-106 Game 4 victory. The Knicks are 6-1 overall in the 2026 postseason and have outscored opponents by an average of 9.7 points per game.
What to watch: The series shifts back to New York for Game 5, where the Knicks can clinch the franchise's first title since 1973.