Both teams are missing key guys.
The Cleveland Cavaliers and New York Knicks will get a different look at ea
ch other tonight. Both teams are without key players as Jalen Brunson has been ruled out with an ankle sprain and Ty Jerome is out with knee tendinitis. Karl-Anthony Towns is listed as probable with left knee soreness.
Dean Wade is also questionable with an illness. New York will be without Cameron Payne and MItchell Robinson.
This is a bit of a disappointment considering the history between these teams. The Cavs are still working to cleanse the stain left on them from the 2023 NBA Playoffs. A win over the Knicks means that much more, even if it’s a regular season game in April. Sending a statement before the new postseason begins is worth something.
As for New York, they are working to clinch the third seed in the Eastern Conference. They stand four games ahead of the Indiana Pacers — putting them in a comfortable position to hold on. Still, racking up games without Brunson has made things more difficult. The Knicks have gone 6-4 over their last 10 games.
Cleveland is looking to clinch, as well. They are four games ahead of the Boston Celtics for first in the Eastern Conference. A win tonight would put them even closer to finishing with the best record in their conference for the first time since 2010.
Jerome’s absence has made things harder. He’s been a spark plug off the bench all season but hasn’t played since March 25. The sooner Jerome is back, the better. But his long-term health is the top priority. The Cavs want to enter the playoffs as fresh as possible.