New York Knicks (35-24) vs. Cleveland Cavaliers (38-20)
As the NBA season winds down, an important Eastern Conference clash looms large this Sunday as the New York Knicks meet the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse. This game has attracted considerable anticipation among top sportsbooks, setting the scene for an electrifying evening of basketball action.
The Knicks have seen strong offense this season, scoring 113.8 points per game on 46.5% shooting while scoring an impressive 36.8% from three. Defensively they excel; allowing just 41.3% field goal percentage while tallying an incredible 7.3 steals per contest; they must continue this impressive defensive effort against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Cleveland boasts an effective offensive attack, scoring 114.7 points per game to rank fifth in the NBA. They boast high shooting percentages across the floor (48.3% from field, 36.4% from three and 76.6% at free throw line) as well as low turnover rates (6th fewest turnovers per game). Unfortunately though, Cleveland’s defense has been less impressive relative to playoff teams; giving up most points overall currently in playoff contention and their efficiency will be tested against New York.
New York Knicks vs. Cleveland Cavaliers Game Info
| When: | Sunday, March 3, 2024 at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
OG Anunoby (SF) vs. Donovan Mitchell (SG)
Knicks small forward OG Anunoby has played well since returning from injury, averaging 15.6 points, 4.6 rebounds and 1.5 steals per game. He is an excellent defender capable of guarding multiple positions. However, Anunoby has been turnover-prone, coughing up the ball 1.4 times per contest.
Cavaliers shooting guard Donovan Mitchell is having an MVP-caliber campaign, leading Cleveland with 28 points and 6.2 assists per game. He has lethal scoring ability but can be inefficient at times. Mitchell’s matchup against Anunoby on the defensive end will be a factor in this game.
Donovan Mitchell’s elite shot-making versus Anunoby’s defensive skills will be a pivotal matchup. Mitchell’s scoring prowess could overwhelm Anunoby. However, if Anunoby can slow down Mitchell, it would stunt Cleveland’s offense. This individual battle could determine the game’s outcome.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds for this game are yet to be determined, reflecting the closely matched nature of these teams. Bettors are advised to monitor the spread and moneyline as they become available, considering the recent performance and head-to-head trends between these teams.
New York Knicks Betting Trends
The Knicks have struggled to cover spreads recently, going 1-4 against the spread (ATS) over their last five matchups. For the season, they are 16-13 ATS away from Madison Square Garden. The totals have gone over in just 1 of the Knicks’ previous five contests though. New York’s sturdy defense has contributed to a number of low-scoring affairs. Still, 9 of their last 30 games at home have exceeded the oddsmakers’ projected point total.
Cleveland Cavaliers Betting Trends
Cleveland is 0-5 ATS over its last five games, failing to play up to lofty expectations during that span. While the Cavaliers do cover well at home with a 14-13 ATS record in Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse, they have still failed to live up to sizable spreads in recent games. However, the over looks enticing for this contest. The totals have gone over in three of Cleveland’s previous five matchups. Moreover, 15 of the Cavaliers’ last 30 home tilts have exceeded the sportsbooks’ projected scoring margin.
New York Knicks vs. Cleveland Cavaliers 3/3/24 Betting Picks
Based on the analysis and betting trends, this game promises to be a closely contested battle. The key will be the performance of the star players and how well each team can execute their game plan. Given the recent trends and the strengths of each team, a slight edge might be given to the Cavaliers, especially considering their home-court advantage and offensive efficiency.
In terms of betting, the winning NBA picks seem to lean towards the Cavaliers, especially if the spread is reasonable. Prop bets on Donovan Mitchell’s scoring and the OVER on total points could be worth considering, given the offensive trends of both teams. However, bettors should wait for the final odds to make informed decisions.
