As we gear up for a potential playoff clash between the Cleveland Cavaliers and the New York Knicks, there's plenty to unpack about each team's prospects. Max Kellerman recently shared his thoughts on the Game Over podcast, suggesting that the Knicks might not be as formidable in the Eastern Conference as some might think.
His main point? The Knicks need every role player to perform perfectly to make a serious title run.
Kellerman highlighted some of the Knicks' well-known challenges. Josh Hart's shooting woes and Mikal Bridges' offensive presence are areas of concern. He also cast doubt on Karl-Anthony Towns' ability to elevate his game to championship-winning levels, a sentiment that Knicks fans might find hard to swallow.
Despite the Knicks' potential to hit their stride at just the right moment, the Cavaliers seem to have the edge, especially when it comes to star power. Donovan Mitchell, with his explosive play, poses a significant challenge for Jalen Brunson and the Knicks' defense. And while Towns can be a handful, Cleveland's duo of high-impact centers, including Defensive Player of the Year Evan Mobley, is well-equipped to handle him.
Depth is another battleground where these teams will clash. New York has bolstered its lineup with Jose Alvarado and Jeremy Sochan, but Cleveland's moves at the trade deadline, bringing in Keon Ellis and Dennis Schroder, keep them competitive. Even if the Knicks' role players shine, Cleveland's own depth might prove too much.
And let's not forget the addition of James Harden to the Cavaliers. This move gives Cleveland a strategic advantage, allowing them to exploit defensive matchups against Brunson. The Knicks' experiments with Brunson-Alvarado lineups might struggle against the Cavs' bigger, more physical guards.
Ultimately, while the Knicks need to execute flawlessly to contend, the Cavaliers' combination of star power and depth might just tip the scales in their favor. As these two teams prepare to potentially square off, fans can expect a thrilling series where every play and matchup will be crucial.