In what I predict will be one of the most explosive matchups in the first round of this year’s playoffs, this series between the New York Knicks and the Cleveland Cavaliers can go either way which is common when it is a matchup between the 4th and 5th seed of either conference.
Unfortunately for Ohio, I will give the edge towards the Knicks in spite of the Cavs being the number one rated team defensively. On one hand, New York is ranked third when it comes to offensive rating, and looking at the first game, their players, in spite being ranked in the bottom half of the league’s defensive rating ranking, the Knicks’ players look like they can handle their individual defensive responsibilities.
It is hard to pick out a single X-Factor between this two that can determine win or lose at a consistent rate because. However, if New York are to be given the edge in the series, they need to stave off the Cavs consistently.
Additionally, Brunson’s performance tonight shows you what Dallas is missing.
On top of my head, if the series ends in six, the Knicks will advance. However, if they end up going to Game 7, there might be a very small edge to Cleveland, and even then, Knicks could still knock them out.
To check my other predictions, click [here](https://open.substack.com/pub/darkazure/p/nba-playoffs-2023-first-round-predictions?r=1zp0go&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web).
by DarkAzuree
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chatgpt level analysis