The New York Knicks are rolling into their matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers with a healthy roster, ready to keep their winning momentum alive in this Eastern Conference clash.
Fresh off a 105-99 victory over the Chicago Bulls, the Knicks are riding a two-game winning streak and have taken three of their last four games. This game marks the second stop on their three-game road trip, which wraps up in Milwaukee on Friday. With a 37-21 record, the Knicks sit third in the East, just a game shy of the Boston Celtics for the second spot.
The Cavaliers, on the other hand, are looking to bounce back after their seven-game winning streak was halted by the Oklahoma City Thunder in a 121-113 defeat. They’re fourth in the East with a 36-22 record, trailing the Knicks by a single game. After this home game, they’ll hit the road again to face Milwaukee on Wednesday.
This matchup is the third of the season between these teams. The Knicks claimed victory in both previous encounters, winning 119-111 on opening night and 126-124 on Christmas Day.
Notably, those games took place before the Cavs added James Harden to their roster. The next time these teams could potentially meet would be in the playoffs.
New York Knicks Injury Update
The Knicks are in good shape health-wise, with all starters and key players ready to hit the court. Mitchell Robinson is back in the lineup after sitting out against the Bulls due to injury management, a precautionary measure for back-to-back games. He’s been consistently rested in such scenarios this season.
Miles McBride remains sidelined following pelvic core muscle surgery earlier this month. He’s targeting a playoff return. McBride didn’t play in the Christmas Day game but was instrumental in the opening night win, contributing 15 points off the bench, including four threes.
Pacome Dadiet and Kevin McCullar Jr are unavailable as they’re on G-League two-way contracts. Dillon Jones is questionable, also on a G-League two-way deal.
Cleveland Cavaliers Injury Update
The Cavaliers are similarly healthy, with stars James Harden, Donovan Mitchell, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen all set to play. This marks their second consecutive game with a full lineup, after Mobley missed the February 20 game against the Hornets.
Max Strus remains out following left foot surgery for a Jones fracture. He hasn’t played this season and is still week-to-week as of February 18.
Tristan Enaruna and Riley Minix are also out, both on G-League two-way contracts.
As the Knicks and Cavaliers prepare to face off, fans can expect a thrilling game with both teams eager to climb the Eastern Conference standings.