Knicks vs. Cavs: Christmas Day Clash Heats Up!

The New York Knicks, holding a 20-9 record, are favored to win against the Cleveland Cavaliers, who stand at 17-14. This Christmas Day game marks the second encounter between the two teams this season, with the Knicks having won the previous matchup 119-111. New York enters the contest as 6-point favorites at home, where they boast the second-best record in the league at 14-2.

The Cavaliers are dealing with the absence of starting power forward Evan Mobley, a significant loss for their defense and rebounding. This gives the Knicks' frontcourt, particularly Mitchell Robinson and Josh Hart, a potential advantage. Despite Cleveland winning their last two games, those victories were against weaker opponents. The Knicks, meanwhile, welcome back Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby after they rested for a recent loss.

The over/under for the game is set at 239 total points, a higher mark than their initial meeting. An early noon tipoff may pose challenges for players. However, the author leans towards the Knicks covering an alternate spread of -2.5 and also favors the under on the total points, suggesting a potentially close contest despite New York's advantages.