James Harden Targeted in Cavaliers' Game 1 Collapse

Harden struggled significantly during the Cavaliers' 115-104 overtime loss to the Knicks, failing to contain Jalen Brunson in the closing minutes. The Knicks explicitly targeted Harden on consecutive possessions to fuel their comeback from a 22-point deficit. Post-game, the Knicks confirmed their tactical focus on exploiting Harden's defensive lapses. His performance on both ends of the floor was identified as a primary factor in the team's defeat at Madison Square Garden.