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Cavaliers and Knicks Clash in High-Stakes Eastern Conference Opener
22 Oct
Summary
- Cavaliers and Knicks expected to be top teams in the East
- Cavaliers core entering 4th season together, seeking NBA Finals run
- Pressure on Evan Mobley to take a big leap as a max player
As the 2025-26 NBA season tips off on October 22nd, 2025, all eyes are on a marquee matchup between the Cleveland Cavaliers and New York Knicks. These two Eastern Conference powerhouses are widely expected to be among the top teams in the East this year, setting the stage for a potential playoff showdown down the line.
For the Cavaliers, this season represents their best chance yet to make a run at the NBA Finals with their current core. Donovan Mitchell, Jarrett Allen, Darius Garland, and Evan Mobley are all back, entering their fourth campaign together. The team has the depth, shooting, and roster flexibility to contend, and with a full offseason and training camp under their belt, they'll be looking to avoid the late-season struggles that plagued them last year.
Much of the Cavaliers' success will hinge on the continued development of Evan Mobley. After a standout sophomore season, the young big man is now a max-level player, and the team will be counting on him to take an even bigger leap. The pressure is on Mobley to prove he can be the driving force that carries this Cavaliers team to the promised land.
