One of the most intriguing matchups in the first round of the NBA playoffs is the New York Knicks, led by Julius Randle and Jalen Brunson, going up against Donovan Mitchell’s Cleveland Cavaliers.
Although the Cavaliers are expected to come out on top in this first-round playoff series, the Knicks have a resilient team, with Brunson and Randle out to prove that New York is truly a force to be reckoned with in the Eastern Conference once again.
Even though Randle is coming back from an ankle sprain and may not be 100%, New York is getting some support from one of its most dedicated fans, and we’re not talking about Spike Lee.
ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith is a New York guy and is always supporting his Knicks, and he proved that by making a bet with WWE’s The Miz ahead of Game 1 in Cleveland.
Who’s winning the Knicks-Cavs series? 👀 @stephenasmith makes a bet on his Knicks with the @mikethemiz 😤 pic.twitter.com/W0TiM8r5Hy
— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) April 15, 2023
With this first-round series being between the No. 4 and No. 5 seed in the East, it could easily go either way, especially considering Cleveland’s inexperience in the postseason compared to New York.
Mitchell has a ton of playoff experience due to his time with the Utah Jazz, but outside of his experience, the rest of the team will be in the postseason for the first time in their careers.
One thing is for sure, however, the Cavaliers are the more talented team with a better upside, as Cleveland could be among the league’s elite teams in the near future.
As for the Knicks, it could be argued that the team is better coached with Tom Thibodeau calling the shots and has two veteran leaders leading the way in Randle and Brunson.
Regardless of the outcome, this will be must-see TV for basketball fans.
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