New York Knicks vs. Cleveland Cavaliers: 3 bold predictions and a series pick

Breaking down the first-round NBA Playoff series between the New York Knicks and the Cleveland Cavaliers, while offering a series prediction.

The 4-5 first-round NBA Playoff matchup in the Eastern Conference features two of the most intriguing teams in the league. The New York Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers. The Knicks are one of the most prestigious franchises in the NBA and they’re on the come-up. Cleveland is one of the most talented young teams that appears to be hitting its stride at just the right time.

In what could end up being one of the most entertaining first-round playoff series, we explore three bold predictions and a series pick for Knicks-Cavs.

Bold prediction No. 1: Donovan Mitchell will prove he’s a worthy No. 1

Dating back to last offseason, there was no guarantee that the blockbuster deal for Donovan Mitchell was going to work out for the Cavs. They decided to go all-in on a player that would seemingly fit the bill as a superstar but also one that had not been anointed as one just yet. But so far during the regular season, he’s proven to be every bit worth the risk for Cleveland.

And I predict that heading into the NBA Playoffs, that will continue to be the case. I didn’t understand why some teams were hesitant to give up everything they had to offer for Mitchell. He’s proven to be a No. 1 option in the past and I believe he will do so once again, this time against the team that also nearly traded for him.

The Cavs have a bright future in front of them and Mitchell will hammer that home with a great performance in the first round against the Knicks.