The NBA continues with an Eastern Conference clash as the New York Knicks (3–0) host the Cleveland Cavaliers (1–2) at Madison Square Garden. New York has looked sharp in its exhibition slate, winning three straight behind balanced scoring and improved ball movement. Cleveland, meanwhile, has struggled to find rhythm, dropping two of its first three games while experimenting with rotations. This matchup carries added intrigue as it previews a potential playoff rivalry — the Knicks and Cavs met in the 2023 postseason, with New York advancing. Both teams will use this game to fine-tune rotations and evaluate depth before the regular season tips off.
How to Watch: Date, Time, Venue, TV
- Date: Wednesday, October 22, 2025
- Tip-off Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
- Venue: Madison Square Garden, New York, NY
- TV: ESPN
- Streaming Options: NBA League Pass, ESPN+, FuboTV, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV, DAZN
Star power will headline this matchup. Jalen Brunson has led the Knicks with 17 points and 6 assists per game in preseason action, while Julius Randle has added 14 points and 7 rebounds. Cleveland counters with Donovan Mitchell, averaging 18 points on 45 percent shooting, and Evan Mobley, who has contributed 12 points and 9 rebounds per contest.
Supporting casts could prove decisive. New York has seen strong bench contributions from Donte DiVincenzo and Josh Hart, both providing energy and perimeter defense. Cleveland has leaned on Darius Garland’s playmaking (6 assists per game) and Max Strus’ outside shooting, though consistency has been an issue.
Team stats highlight contrasting styles. The Knicks have emphasized rebounding and physicality, ranking among the top preseason teams in second-chance points. The Cavaliers, meanwhile, have struggled with turnovers, averaging 15 per game, but remain dangerous from beyond the arc.
Defensive matchups will be key. Expect Hart to spend time guarding Mitchell, while Mobley and Randle battle in the paint. Coaching tendencies also matter: Tom Thibodeau continues to emphasize defense-first rotations, while Kenny Atkinson, in his first preseason with Cleveland, is still experimenting with lineups.
With New York’s depth and home-court energy, the Knicks enter as favorites. But if Mitchell and Garland find rhythm early, Cleveland has the firepower to make this a competitive tune-up.