How the Cleveland Cavaliers stack up against the New York Knicks
By Ismail Sy
The wing matchup
The wing spot has been a problem for the Cavs all season long, but it has picked up lately. For the first time in nearly two months, Caris LeVert looks like a true difference-maker for this Cavaliers team. In his last five games, LeVert is averaging 18 points, 5 assists, and 2 steals. He needs to keep this level of play up off the bench for the Cavs.
From there, in addition to LeVert, Lamar Stevens, Isaac Okoro, and Cedi Osman have all stepped up in various ways on both ends of the floor for the Cavs to provide J.B. Bickerstaff with options to have at the wing. Over a long playoff series, that is important.
As for the Knicks, the wing has not been an issue for them this season, especially lately. RJ Barrett has had an up and down year, but he is still averaging 20 PPG and shooting 44% from the field, offering a scoring punch for New York. Barrett’s shot selection has been steadily improving over the past month or so, and if he is picking his spots correctly, the Knicks offense becomes even more potent.
Along with Barrett, Josh Hart has been a two-way monster for the Knicks, giving them monster minutes off the bench. His defensive presence has been invaluable. However, Hart’s one weakness was shooting, but in the 15 games he has played with the Knicks, he is shooting 56% from three. That is not sustainable, but Hart being capable of hitting open shots when called upon will be huge for the Knicks.
Finally, to round out their wing rotation, the Knicks look to Obi Toppin, who receives inconsistent playing time, but his high energy will be needed in this series.
The Cavs may have more options at the wing spot and they are heating up at the right time, but the Knicks have better quality at this spot, so I give them the slight edge here. Barrett and Hart offer more consistency than anyone the Cavaliers have at the wing right now.