This is a 10* EASTERN-CONFERENCE GOM on the Cavaliers.

Both teams come in at 1-2. The Cavaliers played without Donovan Mitchell in their most recent 125-113 setback here at home to the Pacers are 3.5-point dogs, but I believe they'll finally bounce back here, whether their super-start suits up or not.

This is the opener of a home and home set, so that puts added importance onto this one for the Cavs.

The Knicks looked terrible in their most recent 96-87 loss at New Orleans. New York so far is living and dying with the three-ball, but I believe the Cavs will bounce back defensively here at home after their abnormally bad performance last time out.

With a game at home tomorrow vs. this very same team, I believe the visitors do indeed also get caught "looking ahead" here.

Cleveland has big bodies that limit second chance points. Overall they're a great defensive team, especially on the perimeter.

With New York having difficulties scoring down low early in the season, that leaves the door open for a possible outright win here.

But I say whether Mitchell plays or not, this highly-motivated home side will, at the very least, keep this one tight enough to cover with the handful of points it's been afforded in this matchup.

Grab the points, the play is indeed on the CAVALIERS.

Good luck, NP