3 reasons the Cleveland Cavaliers will beat the Knicks in seven games

Reason No. 3: The Cavs frontcourt

Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen have been one of the best frontcourt duos in the NBA this season, anchoring a Cavaliers defense that was the best in the NBA in defensive rating. They have been the embodiment of the Cavs’ lauded junkyard dog mentality.

The defense has been so good that Mobley has earned consideration for the NBA Defensive Player of the Year Award, and rightfully so. As for Allen, he has been a walking double-double, and while his fro steals the show, he is the engine that makes the Cavs go. The Cavs are 7-7 in games without Allen, and their defensive rating rises 4 points. He is healthy now and his presence will be vital in slowing down Mitchell Robinson on the glass.

Flanking Mobley and Allen is forward Dean Wade, who has come alive at the end of the season, providing the Cavs with defense and a physical presence that they are going to need against this beefy Knicks squad. Another reason the frontcourt is an advantage for the Cavs is because Knicks forward Julius Randle’s health is in question.

Randle is reportedly targeting a Game 1 return, but he just got out of his protective boot last week and has been practicing on a limited basis. I expect him to play but he likely won’t be 100%. Randle being not at full capacity hurts the Knicks’ chances.

This series can be the best of all the Eastern Conference first round matchups, and it figures to be a long one. Both teams are back in the playoffs after short hiatuses and expect them to make some noise.

Rest assured it’s going to be a blast watching these Cavs battle the Knicks in the Wine and Gold’s first playoff series since 2018.