New York Knicks vs Cleveland Cavaliers Betting Pick & Prediction for 5/23
The New York Knicks are set to play Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Finals against the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Knicks lead the series 2–0 and are looking to extend their winning streak. The game will take place at Rocket Arena on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at 8:00 PM, and will be broadcast on ABC.
The Knicks have been strong in the postseason with a 10-2 record. Led by head coach Mike Brown, they have a solid lineup featuring Jalen Brunson, who averages 27.6 points per game. The Cavaliers, coached by Kenny Atkinson, hold an 8-8 postseason record. They aim to use their home advantage to turn the series around. Donovan Mitchell, averaging 25.9 points per game, is a key player for the Cavaliers.
Knicks vs Cavaliers Game Day Info
- Sport: NBA
- Teams: New York Knicks vs. Cleveland Cavaliers
- Venue: Rocket Arena
- Date: Saturday, May 23, 2026
- Betting Odds: Cavaliers -2.5 (-110), Knicks +2.5 (-111), Cavaliers MoneyLine -136, Knicks MoneyLine +114, Over/Under 213.5
New York Knicks Team Preview
The New York Knicks are on a strong postseason run. They have won their last three games, including two wins against the Cleveland Cavaliers. In these games, the Knicks scored over 100 points each time and won by double digits.
Jalen Brunson is leading the Knicks with an average of 27.6 points per game in the postseason. He also contributes with 6.8 assists each game. Karl-Anthony Towns adds strength in the paint with 17.1 points and 10.5 rebounds per game.
The Knicks’ defense has been solid, allowing only 100.6 points per game, which is the best in the league. They also hold opponents to a 30.9% three-point percentage, which is also ranked first. This defense, combined with their scoring ability, makes the Knicks a tough team to beat.
Cleveland Cavaliers Team Preview
The Cleveland Cavaliers have faced some challenges in their recent games. They lost to the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference Finals, dropping Game 1 by 11 points and Game 2 by 16 points. Despite these setbacks, Donovan Mitchell has been a key player, scoring 29 points in Game 1 and 26 points in Game 2.
During the postseason, the Cavaliers have averaged 108.9 points per game, ranking 8th in scoring. They also rank 3rd in free throws made and attempted per game, showing their ability to draw fouls. Their defense has been solid, allowing 109.2 points per game, which ranks them 9th in points allowed.
Donovan Mitchell leads the team with 25.9 points per game in the postseason. James Harden adds 19.6 points and 5.8 assists per game, contributing significantly. Evan Mobley has also been strong, with 16.7 points and 8.2 rebounds per game, though he faces free throw struggles at 62.2%.
BTB Betting Pick
The Knicks are a strong pick against the spread at +2.5 (-111) in their game against the Cavaliers. The Knicks allow only 100.6 points per game, which is the best in the league. Their defense could limit the Cavaliers, who score 108.9 points per game. The projected score is Knicks 110, Cavaliers 108.
The total for the game is set at 213.5 points. The Knicks’ defense and the Cavaliers’ lower scoring average suggest the game could stay under. The Knicks allow only 100.6 points per game, and the Cavaliers allow 109.2 points per game. The projected total score is 218 points, but the strong defense from both teams might lead to a lower score. The pick is Under 213.5 (-109).