New York snatched the opening game versus Cleveland in their first-round meeting. This adds fuel to the already fiery series between the Eastern Conference’s fourth and fifth seeds. Head coach Tom Thibodeau and his crew completed a narrow albeit crucial four-point victory in uncharted territory. The win gives the Knicks momentum and closes the gap between them and the Cavs. Meanwhile, Cleveland head coach J. B. Bickerstaff and his team will try to recover and even things out before hitting the road for Game 3.

Nitrobetting is ready to dish out key assists and lob passes with betting tips and news coverage throughout the 2023 NBA Playoffs. This time, let’s break down the upcoming playoff showdown between the New York Knicks and the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Knicks vs. Cavaliers Game 2 2023 NBA Playoffs First-Round Information

• When: Tuesday, April 18, 2023, 7:30 PM ET
• Where: Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, Cleveland, OH
• TV: TNT
• Radio: 98.7 FM ESPN New York (Knicks) // WTAM 1100 AM (Cavaliers)
• Live Stream: NBA League Pass
• NBA Betting Odds: Knicks (+5) / Cavaliers (-5)

READ MORE: Hawks vs. Celtics 2023 NBA Playoffs Odds and Game 2 Preview – April 18th

Why Bet on the New York Knicks?

New York finished third in the Atlantic Division and booked a series with the Cavs as slight underdogs in Game 1. However, they pulled through and completed the 101-97 win at the final buzzer. The Knicks had a hard time hitting three balls and only hit eight of their 29 attempts. But, what kept them alive was quality free-throw shooting and rebounding proficiency. The visitors hit 19 of 22 free throws and collected 51 rebounds.

Jalen Brunson topped the Knicks’ scoring that night. He scored 27 points on 11 of 24 shooting from the field. The former Mavericks guard also drained all four of his free-throw attempts. Although New York records better defensive figures throughout the season, they did well in their first playoff game of 2023. Since the regular season started, New York averaged 115.8 points per game on 46.9% shooting. Julius Randle tops the Knicks’ roster in scoring and rebounds, averaging 25.06 points and 9.96 boards in 35.52 minutes on the floor.

The Knicks do significantly better on the defensive side of things. They limit opponents to 112.9 opponent points per game on a third-best 46.2% shooting. They also have impressive perimeter defense that holds competitors to 35.7% from deep.

Why Bet on the Cleveland Cavaliers?

Former Utah Jazz star point guard Donovan Mitchell has been doing wonders for Cleveland since he joined the franchise. He topped last game’s scoring and drained 38 points on 14 of 30 shooting from the field. Mitchell was a huge proponent of the Cavs’ 43.4% field goal percentage versus the Knicks. We expect the 26-year-old to bring the same energy in Game 2 despite their earlier loss.

Rebounding is how the Cavs lost to the Knicks last time. True enough, they aren’t the best rebounding team on paper with under 50 total boards per game. The hosts trailed the Knicks by 13 rebounds and were outrebounded 17 to 11 on the offensive end. Nevertheless, Jarrett Allen did lead the game in rebounds with 11 defensive and three offensive rebounds in 43 minutes on the floor.

We expect better from the Cavaliers defensively when they meet the Knicks for Game 2. Since taking on the 2022-23 regular season, Cleveland ranked first in opponent points per game and held teams to an eighth-best 46.7% shooting. These numbers can easily put New York under pressure as long as they keep the momentum going.

Knicks vs. Cavaliers Betting Trends

• The Knicks are 1-4 in its last five playoff games on the road (1-4 ATS).
• The Knicks are 4-1 in the last five meetings versus the Cavaliers (4-1 ATS).
• The totals went over in two of the Knicks’ last four road contests.
• The Cavaliers are 3-3- in the last six contests at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse (1-4 ATS).
• Cleveland is 3-2 in its last five home games facing the Knicks (2-3 ATS).
• The totals went under in three of the Cavs’ last five contests against the Knicks.

Knicks vs. Cavaliers Game 2 Expert Betting Predictions

Based on the recent history between these two teams, the edge has to go to the Grizzlies. However, they’ve faced one another with varying roster availability in each of their three regular-season meetings, which could benefit the Lakers who have relatively better momentum heading into the playoffs. Still, the Grizz should convincingly win Sunday’s opening bout and the Lakers’ adjustments will have to come in the succeeding games of this first-round series.

Where to Bet on the 2022-23 NBA season with Bitcoin

Nitrobetting offers a solid channel for those who want to bet on the 2023 NBA Season with bitcoin. The power of crypto and its lightning-fast transactions make the entire NBA Season betting more enjoyable.

This is just one of the many sports betting guides that you can read here at Nitrobetting news. Stay tuned for more 2022-23 NBA season previews and articles and don’t forget to check out the latest basketball betting odds on our online BTC sportsbook.

*All odds stated are subject to change without prior notice.