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The New York Knicks (45-31) hit the road to take on the Cleveland Cavaliers (47-30) in a clash that could have major playoff seeding implications in the Eastern Conference. Both teams are battling for home-court advantage in the first round, making this late-season matchup a pivotal one. The Knicks are coming off a big win against the Detroit Pistons, breaking a minor skid and regaining momentum. They've gone 6-4 over their last 10 games and remain one of the East’s most physical and defensively sound teams. Jalen Brunson – Averaging over 24 PPG, Brunson continues to be the offensive engine for New York, especially with Julius Randle sidelined. Josh Hart – The do-it-all wing has stepped up on both ends, crashing the boards and guarding top scorers. Injury Report: Julius Randle remains out (shoulder), and OG Anunoby is day-to-day with a hamstring issue. X-Factor: The Knicks' defense. Tom Thibodeau’s group allows just 108.2 PPG — among the league’s best. Slowing down Donovan Mitchell will be a major focus. Cleveland is 7-3 over their last 10 and playing some of their most consistent basketball since the All-Star break. They’ve won three straight at home and are building momentum with a healthy core. Donovan Mitchell – The All-Star guard is averaging 26+ PPG and thrives in big moments. Expect him to take on a heavy load offensively. Evan Mobley – His rim protection and versatility will be crucial against New York’s attacking guards and bigs. The season series is tied 1-1. New York won the first meeting convincingly at Madison Square Garden. Cleveland responded with a gritty win at home behind a 30-point effort from Mitchell. This game should be a defensive slugfest, with both teams ranking in the top 10 in defensive efficiency. Expect a playoff-like atmosphere with every possession contested. If Brunson and Mitchell trade buckets and both teams can stay relatively healthy, this could come down to the final few minutes.  I'm taking the UNDER here on Wednesday as these teams should come in under 220 points, well below the posted 230 line. 

HEAT/CELTICS NBA FREE PICK

The Miami Heat have clamped down on defense in recent games, holding three of their last four opponents to 95 points or fewer, and they've allowed more than 105 points in just one of their last six games.

The Boston Celtics have, as always, also been solid on defense and they've held the Heat to 89, 85 and 91 points in the first three meetings of the season. 

3% FREE PICK ON THE UNDER.