Cavs and Knicks: Now or Never in the NBA Eastern Conference?

In the competitive world of the NBA, the thin line between success and failure often comes down to insignificant details. The fragility inherent in elite teams, which thrive on continuity, is clearly manifested in the current Eastern Conference, where two teams emerge as favorites: the Cleveland Cavaliers and the New York Knicks. These teams, set to face off in an anticipated televised game on Wednesday in New York, benefit from the consistency of their rosters and the misfortune of other contenders. Injuries to key figures like Damian Lillard, Jayson Tatum, and Tyrese Haliburton, who suffered Achilles tendon injuries, opened a window of opportunity for the Cavs and the Knicks. With their key players intact and greater depth in their rosters, both teams aim to reach the Finals. “We have a target on our backs,” declared the new Knicks coach, Mike Brown. “We better be prepared.”

The Cavaliers: A Project in Development

The Cavaliers, with Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland leading the way, have been building a competitive team for five years. With four players with All-Star experience and a roster exceeding $400 million, including luxury taxes, they are in a delicate situation. Upon entering the restricted zone of the “second trap”, they face financial and roster challenges. Recent history shows that remaining in this situation is difficult, so the Cavs must achieve significant results to keep their core of young players together. The Cavs president, Koby Altman, acknowledges the importance of navigating the collective bargaining agreement restrictions. To improve the team, Lonzo Ball was incorporated and interior players were added to strengthen the defense. Coach Kenny Atkinson is looking to refine the team’s identity, focusing on development and tactical adjustments. This includes giving Evan Mobley more offensive responsibility and expecting a greater performance from De’Andre Hunter. With Max Strus out due to injury, Hunter will take on a more important role, transitioning from a Sixth Man of the Year candidate to a starter.

The Knicks: Maintaining Stability

While the Celtics and Pacers, champions of the Eastern Conference, have lost key players, the Knicks have kept their roster intact and added depth. Despite the controversial firing of coach Tom Thibodeau, the team has added Jordan Clarkson and Guerschon Yabusele. Mike Brown will implement a faster attack to reduce the load on Jalen Brunson, who led the league in scoring and dribbling at crucial moments. Brunson, aware of the importance of learning from the past, seeks a renewed approach. The Knicks have narrowly avoided the financial “second trap”, allowing them to have trade options. The acquisitions of Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns reinforce their commitment to the current roster. The conversations to sign Giannis Antetokounmpo did not prosper, which increases the pressure on the Knicks for the 2025-26 season. Despite the possibility of signing a superstar, the Knicks must focus on the present.

“Our team is united and has the necessary continuity to achieve great things,” Towns said. “We showed it last year and we are going to build on that.”

Karl-Anthony Towns