The New York Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers clash for the third time this season, with the latter playing host and hoping to finally get a win back.

Catch the game tomorrow, February 25th, 8:30 AM, Manila time.

AWAY: New York Knicks (36-21, 13-13 ROAD)

Projected starting five:

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

The Knicks enter riding back-to-back wins and carrying confidence from two earlier victories over Cleveland: 119-111 on opening night and a 126-124 nail-biter on Christmas Day. They’ve shown they can solve this matchup, but sustaining that edge won’t be easy.

Jalen Brunson hasn’t shot the ball well over the last two games, yet he’s remained clutch when it matters most. That’s the balance New York leans on – steady leadership even when efficiency dips. Karl-Anthony Towns is coming off a strong double-double against Chicago and faces a compelling battle against Cleveland’s imposing frontcourt. His ability to stretch the floor could be pivotal.

OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, and Josh Hart provide the versatility and two-way presence that define this roster. Meanwhile, newcomer Jose Alvarado has injected noticeable energy and grit. The question is which complementary piece steps forward to tilt the matchup again.

HOME: Cleveland Cavaliers (36-22, 19-11 HOME)

Projected starting five:

  • James Harden
  • Donovan Mitchell
  • Dean Wade
  • Evan Mobley
  • Jarrett Allen

Cleveland is looking to respond after a humbling loss to an undermanned Thunder squad snapped its seven-game winning streak. Falling to OKC without Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Jalen Williams raised eyebrows, and now the Cavs must show whether that stumble fuels them or lingers.

The Donovan Mitchell-James Harden pairing remains a potent offensive engine, blending scoring bursts with playmaking control. Behind them, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen form a powerful interior duo capable of punishing smaller lineups and protecting the rim. On paper, the talent is undeniable.

But focus and urgency are the real storylines. The Cavs are 0-2 against the Knicks this season, and that psychological hurdle matters. At home, this is as much about redemption as it is about standings.

While the Cavs are top five in points and offensive rating this season, they have dipped into average-at-best defensively, which is arguably the cause of many issues.

PICKS

Spread: Knicks (+4)

Over/Under: Over (231.5)