New York (37-18) at Cleveland (45-10)
- When: Feb 21 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, Cleveland, OH, USA
- TV: ESPN
Game Preview
Cavaliers Favored by 8.5 | Total Set at 241.0
Cleveland Cavaliers: Aiming to Extend Dominance
The Cavaliers have been one of the hottest teams in the Eastern Conference, winning nine of their last ten games, including a 110-97 win over Brooklyn on Thursday. With Donovan Mitchell leading the charge, Cleveland has showcased a balanced attack that has made them a legitimate contender.
Mitchell scored 26 points in the win over the Nets and has been a consistent force, averaging 25 points per game over the last nine matchups he has played. Alongside him, Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen continue to dominate the paint, combining for 34 points and 33 rebounds in their latest victory. Coach Kenny Atkinson is confident in his frontcourt, calling them “the base of this” and praising their impact as two elite bigs in the NBA.
The Cavaliers have already proven their edge over the Knicks this season, winning 110-104 in New York back on Oct. 28. In that game, Garland exploded for 34 points, while Mitchell, Mobley, and Allen all made key contributions.
Additionally, Cleveland has been active in improving its roster, acquiring De’Andre Hunter from Atlanta and reportedly bringing in Javonte Green after his buyout from New Orleans. The return of Dean Wade, who has missed 11 straight games due to a knee injury, gives the Cavaliers even more depth heading into this rematch.
New York Knicks: Overcoming Injuries & Staying Competitive
Despite battling injuries, the Knicks have remained competitive, winning three straight and 10 of their last 12. They secured a dramatic 113-111 overtime win over the Bulls on Thursday, with Karl-Anthony Towns leading the way with 32 points and 18 rebounds. Miles McBride added 23 points, while Jalen Brunson delivered 22 points and 12 assists in the victory.
New York has been dealing with injuries to key players, as OG Anunoby (foot sprain) has missed six straight games, and Josh Hart (knee) was sidelined against Chicago. However, coach Tom Thibodeau remains focused on a “next-man-up” mentality, ensuring his team stays competitive despite missing key contributors.
The Knicks have already faced Cleveland once this season, and while Brunson led the way with 21 points, Towns struggled with just 13 points before fouling out. With Cleveland playing dominant basketball, New York will need to step up in all areas, particularly on defense, to slow down a Cavaliers offense that has been clicking on all cylinders.
Betting Trends & Predictions
Cavaliers have won five straight home games.
Cleveland is 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games.
The Knicks have covered in six of their last nine road games.
New York is dealing with multiple injuries, including OG Anunoby and Josh Hart.
The Cavaliers are deservedly favored by 8.5 points, as they are playing at a high level and have been dominant at home. New York is competitive, but with injuries piling up and facing a well-rested, deep Cleveland squad, it will be tough to keep up for four quarters. The total is set at 241.0, indicating an expectation for a high-paced game, but with the Knicks missing key scorers and Cleveland’s defense tightening up, this could lean toward the under.
Best Bets:
Cavaliers -8.5 (Cleveland is in top form, while the Knicks’ injury concerns make it tough for them to keep pace.)
Under 241.0 (With both teams playing on a back-to-back and New York’s injuries, this could slow the tempo down.)
Cavaliers 1H -4.5 (Cleveland has been dominant early in games, while the Knicks might struggle out of the gate.)
Expect Cleveland to control the pace, dominate inside, and capitalize on New York’s injury issues, securing another convincing win at home.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
