The Cleveland Cavaliers opened their 2016-17 season campaign and more importantly their quest for a back-to-back title against the repackaged New York Knicks on Tuesday (7:30 p.m US EST) at Q Arena in Cleveland, Ohio.
Game Preview:
For the first time in franchise's history, the Cavaliers enter into a new season as the defending NBA champion after pulling off unimaginable comeback run against the Golden State Warriors last June.
LeBron James, who signed a three-year, $100M contract to make him the highest-paid player in the NBA per year, is ready to lead the gold-and-wine to the promise land once again, despite the emergence of new super-power in the West.
But before they look farther down the road, the Cavs have to figure out first how to establish lordship in the Eastern Conference for third straight season. And it will begin in an interesting season-opening match against the new-look Knicks.
In an attempt to maximize the remaining prime years of Carmelo Anthony, Knicks president Phil Jackson hammered a deal that net them Derrick Rose from the Chicago Bulls. They have also signed Joakim Noah, Brandon Jennings, and Courtney Lee to bolster their depleted lineup from last season.
Moreover, the Knickerbockers are optimistic that Kristap Porzingis will continue to evolve as a more productive player after a stellar rookie season. Sum this all up, and the Knicks appear to be a pretty strong contender for a spot in the East playoffs.
Players to Watch / Fantasy Picks:
Cavaliers Starting Lineup: Tristan Thompson - C, Kevin Love - PF, LeBron James - SF, Iman Shumpert - SG, Kyrie Irving - PG
Shunpert is expected to assume the shooting guard spot for the meantime until J.R Smith is ready to log more minutes again. Expects LeBron James to be his usual stats monster: 20+ point,s 7+ rebounds, 6+ assists per game. For best value pick, look out for Smith to knock down at least 3 three-pointers and drop another 15+ output in the first regular season game.
Knicks Starting Lineup: Joakim Noah - C, Kristap Porzingis - PF, Carmelo Anthony - SF, Courtney Lee - SG, Derrick Rose - PG
Kristap Porzingis will be a fantasy monster for the Knicks this season. The Latvian big is expected to double up his stats from his rookie year, upping it to at least 17 points, 11 rebounds and 2 blocks per game. Value pick should go to Brandon Jennings, who will be the Knicks' main offensive weapon off the bench.
Prediction & Live Stream Info:
The Knicks will give the Cavs a tough fight down the end, but it will still be the defending champ taking a single-digit win 101-95.
Watch Knicks vs. Cavaliers on NBA League Pass, NBA Live or tune in on ESPN Radio for play-by-play commentary.