The Cleveland Cavaliers look for back-to-back wins against an East contender, but they’ll have to do it on zero-days rest. The New York Knicks, meanwhile, continue to build momentum.
Catch the game tomorrow at 7:00 AM, Manila time.
AWAY: New York Knicks (4-4, 1-2 AWAY)
Projected starting five:
- Jalen Brunson
- Miles McBride
- OG Anunoby
- Mikal Bridges
- Karl-Anthony Towns
The defending champions are still searching for their championship rhythm, but recent results suggest they’re beginning to find it. New York enters this matchup at an even mark after winning three of its last four games, including an emphatic 135-105 demolition of Chicago. The Knicks have been particularly impressive defensively, allowing just 105.1 points per game, the second-fewest in the league. Jalen Brunson continues to lead the way with 25.6 points per game, while Karl-Anthony Towns is averaging 19.9 points and 13.6 rebounds. However, New York’s offense has been less convincing, ranking 22nd in scoring at 110.0 points per game.
Josh Hart’s absence due to right ankle soreness is another setback. His 8.6 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game don’t fully capture his impact as a rebounder and defensive disruptor. The Knicks will need Mikal Bridges and OG Anunoby to shoulder more of that responsibility, particularly against Cleveland’s backcourt.
New York has the defensive personnel to make life difficult for the Cavaliers, but overcoming a talented opponent on the road will require a more consistent offensive performance.
HOME: Cleveland Cavaliers (5-4, 4-1 HOME)
Projected starting five:
- James Harden
- Donovan Mitchell
- Peyton Watson
- Evan Mobley
- Jarrett Allen
Cleveland is starting to look like a legitimate Eastern Conference contender, although its early-season form has been somewhat uneven. The Cavaliers just snapped a two-game losing streak with a convincing 119-95 victory over Philadelphia on Friday – good revenge from their collapse weeks back.
Donovan Mitchell remains their leading scorer at 22.5 points per game, while Evan Mobley is contributing 18.8 points and 8.3 rebounds. James Harden has also provided a steady playmaking presence, averaging 6.3 assists. Cleveland ranks fifth in scoring at 119.2 points per game, but its 117.1 points allowed per contest suggest there’s still work to do defensively.
The biggest concern is fatigue. The Cavaliers are playing their second game in as many nights after an emotionally and physically demanding win over the Sixers. Jarrett Allen’s availability is also worth monitoring after he left Friday’s contest with a knee issue. That could put additional pressure on Mobley against Towns, particularly on the glass.
Still, Mitchell and Harden give Cleveland enough offensive firepower to challenge New York’s defense. The key will be whether the Cavaliers can maintain their pace and shooting efficiency without running out of gas against a Knicks team that has started to rediscover its defensive identity.
PICKS:
Spread: Knicks (+5)
Over/Under: Under (224)
