The Cleveland Cavaliers are the best team in the Eastern Conference but most people agree the competition in the playoffs will be tough.
And most people also agree that the Boston Celtics will be the Cavs’ most difficult opponent.
But who else should be on the Cavaliers’ radar as the postseason approaches?
Writing for Cleveland.com, Chris Fedor touched upon the power of the New York Knicks.
“The Knicks have the firepower, No. 2 in offensive rating this season, and are loaded with capable wing defenders — Josh Hart, OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges. But can they keep up from outside and solve a perceived math problem? New York is 19th in made 3s, 27th attempts and fifth in percentage,” Fedor said.
It makes sense that the Knicks should also be feared considering they are the third-best team in the East with a 36-18 record.
The top of the conference has stayed consistent all season long, with the Cavaliers sitting above everyone else and the Celtics and Knicks behind them.
Cleveland has put a bit of distance between them and their two closest competitors, but that doesn’t mean a trip to the Finals is guaranteed.
As noted by Fedor, the Knicks have a deep and loaded roster, filled with players who can both shoot and defend.
The Cavaliers and Knicks faced off one time already this year, back at the start of the season on October 28.
The Cavs walked away with a 110-104 win that time but they will get another shot to claim victory next week.
Cleveland and New York will meet on February 21, giving fans a second chance to see two teams who will try to dominate the East in the playoffs.
NEXT: Cavs Hold Steady In Latest Power Rankings
