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Among all the games in the 2023 NBA Playoffs, the Cleveland Cavaliers-New York Knicks match-up is definitely one of the more intriguing series. After all, there is some history between the two teams, and there are plenty of storylines to watch out for. With that said, as the postseason starts, we now make our Cavs vs. Knicks prediction and pick.
2023 NBA Playoffs: Cavs vs. Knicks Series Schedule
Game 1: Knicks @ Cavs - April 15
Game 2: Knicks @ Cavs - April 18
Game 3: Cavs @ Knicks - April 21
Game 4: Cavs @ Knicks - April 23
Game 5: Knicks @ Knicks - April 26 (If Necessary)
Game 6: Cavs @ Knicks - April 28 (If Necessary)
Game 7: Knicks @ Cavs - April 30 (If Necessary)
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Why Cavs Could Win Playoff Series vs. Knicks
The Cavs have homecourt advantage in the contest, thanks to their 51-31 record in the regular season that allowed them to clinch the fourth seed in the East.
Playing more games at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse certainly bodes well for the playoff chances of the Cavs, especially since they were one of the best teams at home during the 2022-23 season. They had a 31-10 record on homes games, which only trails the top-seeded Milwaukee Bucks and second-seeded Boston Celtics who both finished 32-9.
While some are concerned about Cleveland's lack of playoff experience, it shouldn't be forgotten that they have Donovan Mitchell who has been in countless playoff battles. Despite the fact that Mitchell hasn't had much success in the playoffs, his experience should at least be a guiding light for a Cavs team making its first postseason appearance in the post-LeBron James era.
It's also not hard to love the talents and depth that Cleveland possesses. They had two great bigs who can defend and score in Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, a stable wing in Isaac Okoro, and two All-Star guards in Mitchell and Garland. Behind them are the likes of Danny Green, Caris LeVert, Cedi Osman, Ricky Rubio and Robin Lopez who are all quality backups and can provide solid minutes.
Why Knicks Could Win Playoff Series vs. Cavs
While the Cavs will love the fact that they are playing most of the series at home, they cannot be complacent against a Knicks team that has beaten them three times in their four meetings during the 2022-23 regular season.
It just seems like New York has Cleveland's number, and the Cavs couldn't figure out what the hell they are doing wrong. It certainly doesn't help that Jalen Brunson appears to always be motivated playing against Mitchell and co. The last time the 'Bockers met the Wine and Gold, Brunson exploded for 48 points on an efficient 18-of-32 shooting.
Also, who could forget how Brunson punished Mitchell and his Utah Jazz back in the 2022 playoffs?
Brunson knows how to win at this level, and he's with a group who is just as hungry to prove themselves to the entire NBA.
Cavs vs. Knicks Prediction and Pick
This should be a tight series, and we won't be surprised if it ends up going the distance. Both teams have too much talent, so every game should be hard-fought. With that said, we predict that the Cavs vs. Knicks showdown in the 2023 NBA Playoffs will go to a Game 6.
It's hard not to give the slight advantage to the Knicks, though, especially since they just have too much weapons even behind their startig unit. Quentin Grimes, Immanuel Quickly and Obi Toppin, anyone?
Cavs vs. Knicks Prediction: Knicks in six!
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