Cleveland Cavaliers fans, if you're eyeing a potential playoff showdown with the New York Knicks, Max Kellerman's recent insights might just put your mind at ease. On his podcast, "Game Over with Max Kellerman and Rich Paul," Kellerman dissected why the Knicks might not be a formidable threat in the Eastern Conference.
Kellerman argues that the Knicks' championship hopes hinge on every role player executing perfectly. He pointed out some key weaknesses: Josh Hart's shooting struggles and Mikal Bridges' lack of offensive dominance. He also threw some skepticism Karl-Anthony Towns' way, suggesting that for the Knicks to clinch a title, Towns needs to elevate his game to a "great" level-something Kellerman doubts will happen.
While the Knicks could catch fire at the right moment, Cleveland seems to have the edge, particularly when it comes to star power. Donovan Mitchell, with his explosive play, poses a bigger challenge than Jalen Brunson. Meanwhile, the Cavaliers boast not one but two elite centers to counter Towns, including the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, Evan Mobley.
The depth battle is intriguing too. New York has bolstered its roster with additions like Jose Alvarado and Jeremy Sochan.
However, Cleveland's response-bringing in Keon Ellis and Dennis Schroder-keeps them competitive in that department. Even if the Knicks' role players perform at their peak, Cleveland's own supporting cast is ready to shine.
And let's not forget James Harden. With Harden and Mitchell on the floor, the Cavs can target Brunson defensively, creating mismatches. The trade deadline move that swapped Darius Garland for the taller, more versatile Harden has made Cleveland a tougher matchup for the Knicks.
New York has experimented with Brunson-Alvarado lineups, but against the Cavs' bigger, stronger guards, that strategy might falter. Kellerman's point stands: for the Knicks to truly contend, they need flawless execution across the board. But even then, facing the Cavaliers, it might not be enough to secure a series win.