New York Knicks vs. Cleveland Cavaliers: Live Score, Highlights and Reaction

The Cleveland Cavaliers began their title defense in style Tuesday night, beating the New York Knicks in a resounding 117-88 home victory on opening night. LeBron James and Kyrie Irving carried the load for Cleveland.

James recorded his 43rd career triple-double with 19 points, 11 rebounds and 14 assists, completely dominating the Knicks in every aspect of the game. Irving caught fire in the third quarter, scoring 19 of his 29 points in the frame and helping push the Cavs’ lead from three to 18 points. Kevin Love also chipped in 23 points and 12 rebounds.

The Knicks, meanwhile, couldn’t get into an offensive flow. They recorded just 17 assists and turned the ball over 18 times, while shooting just 36.8 percent from the field. Carmelo Anthony, Derrick Rose and Kristaps Porzingis led the way with 19, 17 and 16 points, respectively, but all of them missed more shots than they made.

New York will try to rebound from Tuesday's loss Saturday against the Memphis Grizzlies at Madison Square Garden, while the Cavaliers will travel to Toronto on Friday for an Eastern Conference Finals rematch with the Raptors.