Published May 18, 8:36pm ET by
James Tillman - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated May 18, 8:36pm ET
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Updated May 18, 8:36pm ET
Tuesday’s NBA Playoff action features the New York Knicks hosting the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 1 of the conference finals. Who has the edge in our Knicks vs Cavaliers pick?
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| New York Knicks | -7 (-112) |
| Cleveland Cavaliers | +7 (-108) |
New York was down 2-1 against the Atlanta Hawks in the opening round of the playoffs. Since then, they have reeled off seven straight wins, including a 144-114 blowout against the Philadelphia 76ers, closing out the semifinals series in four games.
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The Knicks didn't just beat the Sixers in the series finale; they dominated them. Their Game 4 win included 25 made 3-pointers, tying the all-time NBA playoff mark. New York also won the rebounding battle 47-30 and produced 23 points off 10 turnovers.
Miles McBride led six double-digit scorers with 25 points and four rebounds, going 7-for-9 from beyond the arc. Jalen Brunson added 22 points, six assists, and four rebounds for a New York squad that shot a sizzling 57 percent from 3-point range.
On the other side of this matchup, the Cavaliers faced the unenviable task of trying to win Game 7 on the road against the conference's top team. However, they answered the call in resounding fashion, defeating Detroit 125-94 in the series finale.
Cleveland won this game with a balanced attack, including solid performances from its frontcourt. Donovan Mitchell pumped in 26 points and handed out eight assists with no turnovers.
Jarrett Allen scored 23 points and collected seven rebounds. Evan Mobley added 21 points on 7-for-10 shooting from the field. He also tallied 12 rebounds, six assists, and two blocked shots.
Will New York roll to its eighth straight win, or will Cleveland pull off another impressive road victory?
New York enters this contest as a seven-point favorite. Here's a look at what you need to know for both teams ahead of Game 1.
The Knicks are 2-3 in the previous five meetings in this series. At the same time, New York is 8-2 across its last 10 home outings. While rust could be a factor, look for the well-rested Knicks to get the win, albeit by a small margin.
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Pick
Cleveland Cavaliers (+7)
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