James Harden scores a season-high 32 points as the Cavaliers beat the Knicks 115-107

James Harden had a standout performance, netting a season-high 32 points as the Cleveland Cavaliers triumphed over the New York Knicks 115-107 on Wednesday night. The three-time NBA scoring champion outdid his season average of 15.3 points per game and shot 36.4% from the field. Donovan Mitchell contributed 23 points for the Cavaliers, who returned to Madison Square Garden for the first time since the Eastern Conference finals in the previous season.

There, the Knicks had overcome a 22-point deficit in the fourth quarter of Game 1 and then claimed victory in overtime, followed by a four-game sweep in the subsequent games.

The Cavaliers showcased their fortitude in the second half, extending their lead to 95-85 with 8:25 left, only for the Knicks to mount a 14-4 run, equalizing the score. With the Cavs ahead by a single point, Evan Mobley scored, and Jarrett Allen added four points, including an impressive dunk, to secure a 110-103 victory.

Karl-Anthony Towns delivered a double-double with 21 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists for the Knicks, tying Willis Reed's franchise record for straight double-doubles at the start of a season. However, the Cleveland Cavaliers managed to keep the momentum going throughout the contest, with Harden sinking crucial 3-pointers.