Ranking all 10 projected starters in Cavaliers-Knicks series

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Jarrett Allen, Cleveland Cavaliers. (Photo by Wendell Cruz-USA TODAY Sports) /

Players 10-6

No. 10: Isaac Okoro

Isaac Okoro has just been okay this season. His points, assists, and rebounds have decreased this season; but he has improved on his field goal percentage, his three-point percentage, and his number of fouls. He hasn’t been particularly known for his offense, but his energy on defense is needed. The Cavs will most likely use him for his defense, provided he is able to go physically, regarding his knee injury, and let the other guys handle the offensive responsibilities.

No. 9: Quentin Grimes

Quentin Grimes has been a diamond in the rough player for this New York Knicks team. He has been a great role player and has been a great contributor for the Knicks. Grimes is averaging 11.3 points on 46.8 percent on the floor and 38.6 percent from three.

He will be helpful for the Knicks on offense, but he may have a problem with having to guard Cavs star, Donovan Mitchell. Grimes has proven to be an impact defender for New York, but Mitchell is going to be a handful.

No. 8: Mitchell Robinson

Mitchell Robinson has been a great player for the Knicks when he is on the floor, but injuries have constantly been an issue for him during his career. He has been an amazing defensive presence with a career average of 2 blocks a game. If the Knicks want to have a good chance at winning this tight matchup against the Cavaliers, Robinson has to stay healthy and most notably, remain out of foul trouble.

No. 7: RJ Barrett

This season has been RJ Barrett’s most successful season. It hasn’t been his highest scoring year, but his impact on the Knicks has been seen. Since the beginning of his career, Barrett has been overshadowed by other guys in his draft like Zion Williamson, Ja Morant, and Darius Garland. Maybe he could break out, but hopefully after the Cavaliers advance to the next round.

No. 6: Jarrett Allen

Definitely the Fro of the Frobley duo, Jarrett Allen has been an incredible defensive anchor for the Cavs the last few seasons. He was an All-Star last season and he has been a threat on both defense and offense. Both Allen and Evan Mobley have been in the Defensive Player of the Year conversation and have been two of the most versatile defensive big men this season as well. Hopefully, the defense Allen brings can lead the Cavaliers over the Knicks in this first round.