Cleveland Cavaliers @ New York Knicks 10/22/2025

As the NBA season kicks off, hoops enthusiasts are buzzing with anticipation, particularly for this thrilling opener between the New York Knicks and the Cleveland Cavaliers, happening at the iconic Madison Square Garden. This Eastern Conference clash isn’t just about kicking off the season; it’s an opportunity for bettors to find value in the performance trends of these two teams.

The Knicks, led by coach Tom Thibodeau, come off a strong finish to the offseason with a clutch victory against the Charlotte Hornets, showcasing their refined offense. Averaging 113 points per game in their latest contest, New York has shown it can deliver under pressure. Their recent performance trends reflect a team that’s been tightening its defensive schemes while effectively capitalizing on offensive opportunities.

On the flip side, the Cavaliers are heading into this matchup with a somewhat rocky preseason, but they demonstrated potential by wrapping up with an emphatic 118 points over the Detroit Pistons. Yet, their form over the last few contests shows inconsistency, as reflected in their 1-4 record over their last five NBA games. The Cavaliers will need to dig deep and channel their energy to contend with a Knicks squad that’s been nothing short of solid.

For this matchup, the betting markets are rife with opportunities. The moneyline tips the Knicks as favorites, backed by their recent form and home advantage. However, the Cavaliers have a knack for surprises, having beaten the Knicks in recent head-to-head engagements. As we unfold the dynamics and statistics in this write-up, we’ll provide insightful tips across three main betting markets: moneyline, game totals, and spread.

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Our betting predictions for the match New York Knicks vs Cleveland Cavaliers

Main Tip: Moneyline – New York Knicks to Win

Our primary betting prediction for the outcome of this match is a home win for the New York Knicks. With the Knicks’ impressive preseason track record and home-court advantage at Madison Square Garden, they’re positioned as the favorites. The best odds for a Knicks win are at bet365, and given their current momentum and home crowd support, this appears to be a solid pick.

Tip 2: Game Totals – Over 228.5 Points

Our secondary prediction is to go with the Over at -110 with ESPN BET Sportsbook. With New York averaging high-scoring games and Cleveland showing aggressive offensive play in their recent outing, we expect both teams to push the scoreboard well beyond 228.5 points. The open playing style of both squads sets this up to be an offensive showdown.

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Tip 3: Spread – New York Knicks -3.5 Points

Our final prediction is a bet on the Knicks to cover the spread of -3.5 points at best odds -110 at ESPN BET. Given their performance streak and home advantage, the spread seems comfortably achievable. The Knicks have consistently outperformed expectations in recent home games, and covering this spread seems to align with their current form and strategy.

Team news

• Injuries/availability:
  • – Cleveland: Darius Garland listed as probable; Donovan Mitchell reportedly out (ankle); Ty Jerome out; Evan Mobley and Max Strus expected to return. That shapes Cleveland’s spacing and defensive switching.
  • – New York: OG Anunoby, Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart, Karl-Anthony Towns listed as questionable; Ariel Hukporti out. Any combination of those questionables suiting up changes New York’s two-way ceiling.

Player spotlight — Knicks:

• Jalen Brunson: Primary engine. If he’s available and close to full strength, his rim pressure and mid-range craft raise New York’s floor and unlock drive-and-kick threes.
• OG Anunoby: Elite low-maintenance two-way wing. If active, he sharpens New York’s point-of-attack defense and corner-three efficacy.
• Josh Hart: Glue player who swings possessions with rebounding and secondary playmaking.
• Frontcourt mix: If the big rotation is healthy, New York gets better rim deterrence and short-roll playmaking.

Player spotlight — Cavaliers:

• Darius Garland: On-ball creation and pull-up shooting set Cleveland’s offensive tempo. His usage should climb with Mitchell reportedly sidelined.
• Evan Mobley: Length, mobility, and short-roll reads. His ability to switch and help at the rim is pivotal against New York’s guard-led drives.
• Max Strus: Floor-spacing and movement shooting. If he’s in rhythm, Cleveland’s half-court offense opens up.

New York Knicks performance check

The Knicks, under their coach, have shown commendable consistency. Last season’s conclusion left them hungrier, as they exhibited tactical flexibility and depth in their squad. They ended last season on a high, securing a home win against the Hornets with an impressive scoring margin, setting a standard for the new season. New York has been putting up performances averaging over 113 points per game, crucial for their confidence as they square off against Cleveland.

How is the current performance of the Cleveland Cavaliers?

The Cavaliers, guided by their coach, have been characterized by a scrappy playstyle. Their preseason win against the Pistons showcased both their strengths and tendencies to occasionally fall off the intensity radar. Averaging a little over 118 points in their last match, it’s evident that their offensive spark is a weapon, ready to be deployed in the Garden’s expanse. Defensively, Cleveland has struggled, a fact emphasized by their previous face-offs with New York.

Statistics

Last direct match

Cleveland Cavaliers edged out the New York Knicks with a 108-102 victory in their recent face-off, highlighting their potential to challenge even when the Knicks seem to be on an upswing.

Head-to-head last direct meetings

Across the last five matchups, the Cleveland Cavaliers have come out on top with a 4-1 advantage. The Knicks managed a single win, clearly underlining the Cavaliers’ dominance in recent times.

Performance over the last 5 matches

In terms of performance in the last five games, the Knicks have found themselves victorious in four encounters, while the Cavaliers only have a single win to boast about, a telling contrast in form and consistency.

Last match result: New York Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers

Cleveland’s significant victory against Detroit contrasts sharply with their last NBA loss to Indiana, while New York builds on their winning finale against Charlotte. This mixed bag of outcomes for both teams adds suspense to their encounter.

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TrustnBet Final Thoughts

With the Knicks strongly positioned at home and a favorable recent win, our main betting tip suggests a New York victory. Adding value, betting on Over 228.5 points appeals given both teams’ offensive output recently. Lastly, with the Knicks’ performance, taking them to cover the spread makes strategic sense—capitalizing on home comfort and Cleveland’s inconsistent away form. These predictions set the stage for an intriguing season opener at Madison Square Garden.