Opinion
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Cleveland Cavaliers Set to Host New York Knicks at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse

As the Cleveland Cavaliers prepare to welcome the New York Knicks to the Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be an electrifying matchup. The Cavaliers, coming off a recent loss against the Knicks on April 15th with a score of 97-101, are looking for redemption and have their sights set on victory.


CLEVELAND, OH - APRIL 15: Darius Garland #10 of the Cleveland Cavaliers shoots the ball during Round 1 Game 1 of the 2023 NBA Playoffs against the New York Knicks on April 15, 2023 at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by  Lauren Leigh Bacho/NBAE via Getty Images)

The previous encounter saw the Cavs struggle in maintaining a lead, only ahead for a mere 2 minutes and 40 seconds of game time. Despite this setback, there's reason to believe that they can turn things around in their upcoming game. The Cavs showcased resilience with an impressive fast break percentage of 67 percent and scored efficiently from two-point range at a rate of 50 percent. However, turnovers were an issue as they gave up possession 14 times.


Looking back at their performance on April 9th against the Charlotte Hornets, where they lost by a narrow margin (95-106), it's clear that turnovers continue to plague them; they had another 16 in that game. Yet there is a silver lining: bench scoring was robust with an outstanding contribution of 66 points.


CLEVELAND, OH - APRIL 15: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers drives to the basket during the game against the New York Knicks during the 2023 Round 1 Game 1 NBA Playoffs on April 15, 2023 at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by David Liam Kyle/NBAE via Getty Images)

The key takeaway from these games is that when the Cavs control possession and capitalize on fast breaks, they're tough to beat – as evidenced by their dominant win over Orlando Magic on April 6th (118-94). In that game, Cleveland shot exceptionally well from beyond the arc at nearly half success rate (47 percent) and displayed remarkable offensive efficiency.


Against New York Knicks' defense which allowed only one block last time out but struggled from three-point land hitting just under 28 percent - there lies an opportunity for Cleveland. If they can tighten up ball security and maintain shooting prowess especially from deep range while exploiting any lapses in New York's perimeter defense; victory could very well swing back into their favor.


CLEVELAND, OH - APRIL 15: Donovan Mitchell #45 of the Cleveland Cavaliers dribbles the ball during Round 1 Game 1 of the 2023 NBA Playoffs against the New York Knicks on April 15, 2023 at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by  Lauren Leigh Bacho/NBAE via Getty Images)

Fans should expect Cleveland Cavaliers' stars to come out firing with intent not only to entertain but also secure this crucial win as playoffs loom closer. It will be essential for them not just rely heavily upon starters but also draw strength from depth players who've proven capable contributors off bench when called upon.


Mark your calendars: The showdown between Cleveland Cavaliers and New York Knicks is scheduled for April 18th at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse starting at 7:30 PM local time (EST). Fans can catch all action live nationally on TNT channel number 245 or locally via BSOH channel number660 if you're rooting home team or MSG channel number634 if supporting away side.

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