NEW YORK KNICKS
53-29 · Leads Series
2 – 1
Series
SAN ANTONIO SPURS
Trails Series
GAME 4 — MSG, NEW YORK
Most revealing game of the Finals
After 13 straight wins, the Knicks looked like a very good team again. That may be the most important story of these Finals.
Sweet Science Sports
S³ NBA Finals Analysis
June 2026 · NBA Finals
The New York Knicks still lead the NBA Finals 2-1, but Game 3 may have been the most important game of the series — not because they lost, but because of how they lost.
For nearly an entire postseason, the Knicks looked unstoppable. They won 13 consecutive playoff games and entered Game 3 with only two total points of defeat during their entire playoff run. They weren't simply winning — they were dominating.
The question now is whether that version of the Knicks was sustainable.
"Was the 13-game winning streak the real Knicks — or was it the hottest stretch of basketball they were capable of playing?"
S³ Sweet Science Sports
Throughout the playoffs, analysts repeatedly said, "We've never seen this Knicks team before." That statement can be interpreted in two ways. Either the Knicks discovered a new level that transformed them into an all-time great playoff team — or they were experiencing the hottest stretch of basketball of their season.
Game 3 felt like a return to reality.
Jalen Brunson continued to carry a massive offensive burden. The supporting cast looked more like supporting players than co-stars. The Knicks were forced to grind through possessions instead of overwhelming opponents with momentum and confidence.
This is not an indictment of New York.
In fact, it may be the most important reminder of the Finals: the Knicks have not won anything yet. Great teams become great by winning championships. Until then, they remain contenders trying to prove themselves.
The Spurs Looked Comfortable
Meanwhile, the Spurs looked comfortable in Madison Square Garden. For a young team playing on the biggest stage in basketball, there was little evidence of intimidation. Victor Wembanyama played with confidence. Stephon Castle looked composed. Dylan Harper contributed meaningful minutes. De'Aaron Fox controlled key stretches of the game.
Most importantly, San Antonio played as if it expected to win.
The Spurs now know they are capable of winning in New York. That changes the psychology of the series.
Game 4: The Most Revealing Game of the Finals
Game 4 is not an elimination game, but it may be the most revealing game of the Finals. If the Knicks win, they regain control and move within one victory of a championship. If the Spurs win, the series becomes tied and the conversation shifts entirely.
The Knicks may still win the championship. The Knicks may still be the better team.
S³ Final Thought
Was the 13-game winning streak the real Knicks — or was it the hottest stretch of basketball they were capable of playing?
Game 4 may give us the answer.
— S³ Sports