Knicks vs. Cavs, Game 3: Halftime Thoughts From MSG

The New York Knicks have engaged in another defensive struggle with the Cleveland Cavaliers but RJ Barrett's resurrection has put them ahead.

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It's deja vu all over again ... with one very welcome exception.

Behind 14 points from RJ Barrett, the New York Knicks broke through in another defensive struggle, taking a 45-32 lead on the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 3 of their Easter Conference quarterfinal showdown. Donovan Mitchell paces the Cavs with 12 points and seven rebounds.

What can we gather from the first half of action? 

You (Blue) Devil, You!

The Knicks have been able to break through thanks to the offensive efforts of Barrett, who is playing by far his best game of the series. He helped the Knicks jump out to an early advantage with 10 points in the opening frame alone one 4-of-5 from the field. Barrett's well on his way to a double-double, taking advantage of Cleveland's misses with five rebounds thus far.

Gar None

After his breakout in Game 2, the Knicks have kept Darius Garland in check to the tune of 1-of-12 shooting from the field and he has only been to the foul line once after getting 11 attempts on Tuesday. The Cavs have been forced to rely on the efforts of Donovan Mitchell again: beyond his 5-of-11 performance and a perfect 3-of-3 for Jarrett Allen, the Cavs are shooting a mere 4-of-24 from the field. New York has done a brilliant job of capitalizing on Cleveland's 12 turnovers, turning them into 18 points.

Not Ready For Grime Time?

Barrett is back in the New York groove but now it's time for Immanuel Quickley to rediscover his own shooting touch. While Quentin Grimes was struggling in the early going (1-of-5 from the field), the Knicks can't help but be concerned about his absence, as he went to the locker room early as the hosts built their lead. Quickley had another quiet first half but helped end things on the right note with a triple that helped create a healthy double-figure lead.

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Geoff Magliocchetti is on Twitter @GeoffJMags

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