The New York Knicks make a return to the NBA Playoffs for the first time in eight years, as they square off against the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals. The Knicks finished the regular season with a 41-31 record, earning them the fourth seed, while the Cavaliers finished with a 22-50 record in eleventh place.
Randle’s return provides a huge boost for Knicks
After nearly three weeks of absence due to a sprained ankle, Julius Randle is set to make his return in Game 1. The Knicks had listed Randle as questionable, but he tested his ankle ahead of the game and feels good enough to compete. The forward’s production will be crucial for the Knicks, as he was averaging a career-high of 25.1 points, 10 rebounds, and 4.1 assists this season. His presence will be especially valuable against the Cavaliers, who have two giants in their frontcourt.
Randle’s return is expected to be a huge boost for the Knicks but he may need to knock off some rust. The Knicks may need to be cautious with his return to prevent him from worsening the injury. Nonetheless, his presence is great news for the Knicks as they try to win Game 1 on the road against the Cavaliers.
Donovan Mitchell leads Cavs against Knicks
Donovan Mitchell nearly signed with the New York Knicks this offseason but instead opted to join Cleveland where he has been playing exceptionally well leading into playoffs. He will lead his team against a wounded Knicks side missing Jalen Brunson and Marcus Morris due to injuries.Positive thing for Cavaliers is that they have overcome their injury issues and are healthy for playoffs.
Mitchell has been scoring exceptionally well, racking up 40 or more points in four straight games before being sidelined for the last two games of the regular season. His total points prop has been set at 30.5 and he is expected to make at least 3.5 3-pointers in the game. The Knicks have been vulnerable in defending the three-point line, which Mitchell has taken advantage of in their previous meetings.
Knicks vs Cavaliers – What to Expect?
The Knicks are considered one of the best teams in the league, with a +3.1 Adjusted Net Rating and ranked fourth on the offense. In contrast, Cleveland possesses the second-best Adjusted Net Rating and boasts of the best Adjusted Defensive Rating among all NBA teams.
Evan Mobley’s defensive versatility will be tested in this series, particularly against Randle. The Cavaliers have a strong half-court defense but have struggled with allowing offensive rebounds, an area where the Knicks excel.
Thibodeau-coached teams have good record as underdogs
Tom Thibodeau is a defensive-minded coach with vast experience when it comes to playoff scenarios. Teams he coached have a good record as underdogs in Game 1s suggesting that his team can somewhat cause an upset.
Uncertainty around Randle’s status could affect game plan
News about Randle’s availability was not confirmed until late, which could prompt a change to New York’s gameplan.There was uncertainty surrounding Julius Randle’s status for the game due to an ankle injury.New York was prepared for Life without him and if he is unable to play or limited, Obi Toppin or Josh Hart may fill in for him.
Over/Under Prediction for Game 1
Both teams have had time to prepare for this opener clash, making it challenging to predict over/under results. The Over is 52 in the Knicks’ last seven games played on three or more days of rest and 4-1-1 in the Cavaliers’ last six games in the same scenario.The Over has been successful in the head 2 head games between the teams and the line for the total points has been set at 217.5.
In conclusion, fans should expect a closely-fought contest between two challenging sides. The Cavs will have an energetic Donovan ready to lead them while the Knicks will bank on a returning Randle to help them through this contest. It promises to be a great night of basketball.
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