NBA Finals Preview: Spurs vs. Knicks Game 3 – Can San Antonio Stop the Knicks’ Historic Run?
The New York Knicks will look to extend their historic NBA Finals run when they host the San Antonio Spurs in Game 3 at Madison Square Garden on Monday, June 9 (08:30 local time / 12:30 UTC). After sweeping the first two games in Texas, the Knicks have taken a commanding 2-0 series lead and now sit on the brink of becoming just the third team in NBA history to win a championship on the road.
Why This Game Could Decide the Championship
The Knicks’ 2-0 series lead is the largest in NBA Finals history since the 1980s, and their 13-game postseason winning streak—spanning playoffs and Finals—is one of the longest in league history. While the Spurs have shown resilience in their home arena, New York’s offensive firepower and defensive intensity have been decisive factors.
For the Spurs, this is their final opportunity to force a return to Texas and potentially shift momentum. Their ability to contain the Knicks’ star duo of Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson will determine whether they can mount a historic comeback or become another team to fall short in the Finals.
Series Stats: How the Knicks Have Dominated So Far
| Metric | Knicks | Spurs |
|---|---|---|
| Points per game (Game 1 & 2) | 105.5 | 99.5 |
| Rebounds per game | 48.0 | 44.0 |
| Assists per game | 24.5 | 22.0 |
| Turnovers per game | 12.0 | 14.5 |
| Winning percentage in Finals | 2-0 (100%) | 0-2 (0%) |
Source: NBA.com official box scores
What to Watch: 3 Key Matchups That Could Shift the Game
The Knicks’ ability to control the tempo and limit the Spurs’ transition offense will be critical. Here are three areas to monitor:
1. Towns vs. Spurs’ Frontcourt Defense
Karl-Anthony Towns has been unstoppable in the Finals, averaging 23.5 points and 12.0 rebounds over the first two games. The Spurs will need to deploy their best defensive bigs—Victor Wembanyama and LaMelo Ball—to disrupt his rhythm. If Towns maintains his efficiency, the Knicks’ offense will remain unstoppable.
2. Brunson’s Playmaking Under Pressure
Jalen Brunson has been the engine of the Knicks’ offense, averaging 20.0 points and 6.0 assists per game in the Finals. The Spurs’ defensive scheme will likely focus on double-teaming Brunson to force him into tough decisions. His ability to operate in isolation and find open teammates will determine whether the Knicks can maintain their scoring pace.
3. Spurs’ Three-Point Shooting
The Spurs have struggled from beyond the arc in this series (28.6% in Games 1 & 2), but if they can stretch the floor, they may be able to slow down the Knicks’ transition offense. Look for how the Knicks’ defense—particularly Mitchell Robinson and Evan Mobley—handles the Spurs’ shooters.
How This Series Compares to Other NBA Finals Comebacks
The Knicks’ 2-0 lead is the largest in NBA Finals history since the 1986 Celtics (who led 2-0 before losing in 6 games). Only two teams have ever won a championship after trailing 2-0 in the Finals:
- 1989 Detroit Pistons (defeated Lakers 4-2 after losing first two games at home)
- 2016 Cleveland Cavaliers (defeated Warriors 4-3 after losing first three games at home)
While the Spurs are far from out of it, the historical odds favor the Knicks. However, San Antonio’s ability to adjust to New York’s fast-paced offense could be the difference-maker.
Madison Square Garden: The Knicks’ Home-Court Advantage
Playing in front of a raucous MSG crowd will add another layer of intensity for the Knicks. The arena’s energy has been a key factor in their success this postseason, and the home-court advantage could help them maintain focus in a high-stakes game.
For the Spurs, the challenge will be blocking out the noise and sticking to their game plan. If they can execute in the fourth quarter—where they’ve struggled in this series—they may have a chance to force a Game 4.
FAQ: Common Questions About Game 3
Can the Spurs still win the championship after losing the first two games?
Historically, it’s extremely difficult. Only two teams have ever won a championship after trailing 2-0 in the Finals (1989 Pistons, 2016 Cavaliers). The Spurs would need a near-perfect performance in Game 3 and a dominant Game 4 in Texas to overcome the deficit.
Who are the key players to watch in this game?
For the Knicks: Karl-Anthony Towns (scoring/rebounding), Jalen Brunson (playmaking), Mitchell Robinson (defense). For the Spurs: Victor Wembanyama (defense), LaMelo Ball (offense), and their three-point shooters (Keldon Johnson, Tre Jones).
What time does the game start in New York vs. UTC?
The game tips off at 08:30 AM Eastern Time (New York), which is 12:30 PM UTC. Fans in Europe will need to stay up late to catch the action.
With the Knicks on the verge of history, Game 3 at Madison Square Garden promises to be one of the most electric NBA Finals games ever. Who do you think will come out on top? Share your predictions in the comments below.
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