The New York Knicks are looking to grab a commanding 3-0 series lead in front of their rabid crowd, while the San Antonio Spurs hope to finally finish strong.

Catch the game tomorrow, June 9th, Tuesday, at 8:30 AM, Manila time.

AWAY: San Antonio Spurs (0-2)

Projected Starting Five:

  • De’Aaron Fox 
  • Stephon Castle
  • Devin Vassell
  • Julian Champagnie
  • Victor Wembanyama 

San Antonio has played well enough to believe it belongs in this series. The problem is that belief doesn’t show up in the standings. The Spurs let two winnable games slip away on their home floor and now face a daunting challenge heading into Madison Square Garden.

History isn’t on their side. No team has ever overcome an 0-2 Finals deficit after losing both opening games at home. That reality makes Game 3 feel less like a must-win and more like a season-defining moment. Victor Wembanyama remains the focal point, but he hasn’t consistently imposed his will the way many expected. In fact, Karl-Anthony Towns has arguably been the more impactful big man through two games. Wembanyama’s costly late turnover in Game 2 – throwing a pass toward Stephon Castle while Castle’s back was turned – became the defining mistake of the night.

The Spurs need more aggression from Wembanyama, particularly attacking the rim rather than settling for difficult jumpers. They’ll also need major contributions from Castle, De’Aaron Fox, Dylan Harper, and Devin Vassell. San Antonio isn’t getting blown out – it’s simply failing to finish. If that doesn’t change immediately, the dreaded 0-3 hole awaits.

HOME: New York Knicks (2-0)

Projected Starting Five:

  • Jalen Brunson
  • Josh Hart
  • Mikal Bridges
  • OG Anunoby
  • Karl-Anthony Towns

The Knicks are on one of the most dominant postseason runs in recent memory. They’ve won 13 consecutive playoff games, haven’t lost in roughly six weeks, and have outscored opponents by more than 260 points during that stretch. The confidence is obvious, but so is the discipline.

What’s remarkable is that Jalen Brunson hasn’t even been particularly efficient. The All-Star guard is just 19-for-56 through two Finals games, yet he’s continued to deliver when the pressure is highest. Once again, his clutch shot-making and decision-making have tilted winning time in New York’s favor. That’s become the defining trait of this Knicks team: they don’t always play perfectly, but they execute when it matters most.

Karl-Anthony Towns has arguably been New York’s most valuable player in the series so far. His consistent double-doubles, improved playmaking, and physical defensive effort against Wembanyama have helped establish the Knicks’ edge. Around him, Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, and Josh Hart continue to fill their roles beautifully, with Hart’s rebounding and hustle plays repeatedly swinging possessions.

Still, New York knows the job isn’t done. The efficiency on both sides has been affected by relentless defensive pressure, and complacency is the last thing the Knicks can afford. They have all the momentum in the world, but maintaining that focus may be their biggest challenge heading into Game 3.

PICKS

Spread: Spurs (+2)
Over/Under: Under (216.5)