The New York Knicks survived a furious San Antonio Spurs comeback and escaped with a 105-104 victory in Game 2 of the NBA Finals. A late Spurs turnover and missed final shot sealed the result, giving New York two road wins and a commanding 2-0 lead in the championship series.
What happened
New York entered the fourth quarter with a 14-point advantage but could not put San Antonio away. The Spurs erased nearly all of that deficit, turning what appeared to be a controlled Knicks victory into a one-possession finish.
San Antonio had an opportunity to complete the comeback in the closing moments. Instead, a late turnover damaged the Spurs' chances, and their final attempt did not fall, allowing the Knicks to preserve the narrowest possible victory.
Why it matters
The Knicks leave San Antonio with wins in both road games and need two more victories to secure the championship. After taking Game 1 by 10 points, New York showed in Game 2 that it could also withstand a late surge and close out a tight contest.
The pressure now falls heavily on the Spurs. They came close to leveling the series but instead head to New York facing a 2-0 deficit, with little room remaining for another late-game breakdown.
By the numbers
The difference between the first two games illustrates how New York has won under contrasting circumstances. The Knicks claimed the opener by 10 points before surviving Game 2 by one, producing two road victories with a combined margin of 11 points.
San Antonio's 14-point fourth-quarter comeback attempt showed the series remains competitive, but the final score is what shapes the matchup. New York owns the two victories, while the Spurs must now win on the road to prevent the series from moving closer to a quick conclusion.
What to watch next
Game 3 is scheduled for Monday, June 8, in New York. The Knicks will have an opportunity to take a 3-0 lead at home and move within one victory of the title.
San Antonio must improve its execution in the decisive moments. The fourth-quarter rally provided a path forward, but the late turnover and missed final shot left the Spurs without the result they needed before the series changed cities.