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Cleveland (0-0) at New York (0-0)
- When: Oct 22 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Madison Square Garden, New York, NY, USA
- TV: ESPN
Cleveland vs New York Preview & Prediction
Spread: Cleveland -1.5
Moneyline: Cleveland (-120)
Total: 228.5
New York Knicks Betting Outlook
The Knicks kick off their new campaign with high expectations after last year’s deep playoff run. Despite reaching their first Eastern Conference Finals since 2000, New York shocked the league by parting ways with Tom Thibodeau and hiring veteran coach Mike Brown, a move clearly signaling championship ambitions.
New York’s core of Jalen Brunson, OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, Josh Hart, and Karl-Anthony Towns returns intact, giving them one of the most balanced starting fives in the East. The offseason additions of Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele strengthen their bench, ensuring they can keep up their aggressive pace and spacing.
Injuries are a mild concern, with Hart questionable due to a back issue. Still, the Knicks’ continuity, ball movement, and defensive length should keep them in every game. With the Pacers and Celtics dealing with major injuries, New York sees a clear opening to reclaim the East.
Cleveland Cavaliers Betting Outlook
Cleveland enters the season as a slight favorite, and for good reason. The Cavs finished atop the East last year with 64 wins before falling to Indiana, but their depth and defense remain elite. Kenny Atkinson’s first season brought a 60-win campaign and a Coach of the Year nod, but the playoffs exposed Cleveland’s lack of health and secondary scoring.
Donovan Mitchell remains the focal point after averaging 34 points in last spring’s playoff series, and he’ll again lead a core featuring Darius Garland, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen. Lonzo Ball joins as a key bench piece, while Max Strus remains out until late November with a foot injury. Cleveland’s focus this season is consistency, staying healthy and proving they can win when it matters most.
The Cavaliers have made the postseason three straight years but haven’t broken through past Round 2. Atkinson knows this year must be different. Expect a more efficient offense centered around Mitchell and a renewed defensive intensity anchored by Mobley.
NBA Prediction & Betting Angle
This season opener should set the tone for both teams’ championship pursuits. Cleveland’s injuries make this line interesting, but home-court energy and New York’s roster stability might tilt momentum early.
Final Score: Knicks 114, Cavaliers 110
Lean: New York (+100)
Total: Under 228.5
- NBA Basketball Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
