Knicks vs. Cavaliers Christmas Day Preview: Brunson Returns, Kolek Rises, and Mobley’s Status Looms
Christmas Day basketball has long been a staple of the NBA calendar, and this year’s early tip at Madison Square Garden brings us a matchup between two Eastern Conference squads with playoff aspirations - the New York Knicks and the Cleveland Cavaliers. It’s the second meeting of the season between these two, with New York having taken the first game in their three-game regular-season series.
Last season, both teams looked like serious contenders in the East. The Cavaliers, in particular, had the look of a team ready to make a deep run.
Fast forward to this year, and the momentum has shifted. Cleveland has taken a noticeable step back, while the Knicks are pushing hard to climb the standings and challenge for the top seed - a spot currently held by the surprising Detroit Pistons.
Knicks Injury Report: Kolek Seizing His Moment
The Knicks will once again be without two key rotation players: Miles McBride (ankle) and Landry Shamet (shoulder) remain sidelined. But their absence has opened the door for rookie Tyler Kolek, and he’s not just walking through it - he’s sprinting.
Kolek, a former All-American at Marquette, is proving that seasoned college guards can translate their game to the pros. With the backcourt thinned out, Kolek earned his first career start against the Timberwolves and delivered a near triple-double: 20 points, 11 rebounds, and 8 assists.
That’s not just solid - that’s eye-opening. He’s showing poise, vision, and a toughness that fits right into the Knicks’ identity.
Guerschon Yabusele is the only other name on the Knicks’ injury list, and he’s listed as questionable due to illness. But the big news for New York is that both Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby are expected to return to the lineup.
The Knicks missed both players in their recent loss to Minnesota, and while their depth has improved, missing two starters like Brunson and Anunoby is a tall order for any team. Their return instantly boosts the Knicks on both ends of the floor - Brunson with his shot creation and leadership, Anunoby with his elite perimeter defense and versatility.
Cavaliers Injury Report: Waiting on Mobley
Cleveland, meanwhile, is dealing with their own injury concerns. Max Strus (foot) and Larry Nance Jr. (calf) are both ruled out, thinning the Cavaliers' rotation. But all eyes are on Evan Mobley, who is listed as questionable as he works his way back from a calf strain.
Mobley last played on December 12 and was originally expected to miss two to four weeks. If he suits up on Christmas, he’ll be returning right at the tail end of that timeline - a big boost if he’s ready to go. Mobley anchors the Cavs’ defense and gives them a dynamic presence in the frontcourt, especially important against a physical Knicks team that thrives on second-chance points and paint touches.
What’s at Stake
Both teams have something to prove. The Knicks are looking to bounce back from a loss and continue their push toward the top of the conference. The Cavaliers, on the other hand, are hunting their third straight win and trying to regain some of the consistency that made them so dangerous last season.
Tip-off is set for 12:00 p.m. EST at Madison Square Garden - and with stars returning, young players emerging, and playoff positioning on the line, this Christmas Day clash has all the makings of a must-watch.