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Cavaliers vs. Knicks prediction: New York to win, Jalen Brunson projected for big game in Thursday's NBA matchup [12/25/2025]
Updated: | First published:
Written by Ryan Leaver, Senior Sports and Betting Editor
Get Cleveland Cavaliers vs New York Knicks predictions for NBA Thursday.
The New York Knicks will take on the Cleveland Cavaliers in NBA action at Madison Square Garden on Christmas Day, commencing at 12:00 PM ET.
Based on updated simulation results and today’s injury updates, Dimers' proven NBA model projects the Knicks as the most likely winner of the Cavaliers vs. Knicks game.
This prediction follows the latest NBA Injury Report, which suggests the Knicks lineup will feature stars like Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns and OG Anunoby, while the Cavaliers will look to Donovan Mitchell, Darius Garland and De'Andre Hunter.
This article offers a closer look at Thursday's matchup, including an expanded look at the predicted score, best bets and player prop picks.
Cavs vs. Knicks prediction: Who will win and cover?
Using powerful machine learning and data, we have simulated the result of Thursday's NBA matchup between the Cavaliers and Knicks 10,000 times as part of our NBA predictions coverage.
Our leading predictive model gives the Knicks a 67% chance of beating the Cavaliers. Our predicted final score has the Knicks winning 121-116.
According to our model, the Cavaliers (+5.5) have a 52% chance of covering the spread, while the 240.5-point over/under has a 53% chance of staying under.
Cavaliers vs. Knicks odds
We have sourced the best NBA odds in America for this game, which are listed here:
| Bet Type | Cavaliers | Knicks |
|---|---|---|
| Spread | +5.5 (-105) | -5.5 (-108) |
| Moneyline | +190 | -210 |
| Total | o240.5 (-105) | u240.5 (-108) |
All odds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.
Cavaliers vs. Knicks picks and best bet
After matching our predictions against the best current odds, we can reveal our picks for each of the major markets. Plus, find our best bet for the game below:
| Bet Type | Pick | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|
| Spread | Cavaliers +5.5 | -105 |
| Moneyline | Knicks | -210 |
| Total | Under 240.5 | -108 |
According to our NBA best bets, the top play to make on this game is Under 240.5 total points.
Cavaliers vs. Knicks player props
Betting on Cleveland vs. New York NBA prop bets? We have crunched the numbers to project how each team's leading players will perform at Madison Square Garden.
Donovan Mitchell is expected to lead the Cavaliers with 28 points, 4 rebounds and 6 assists, while Jalen Brunson is projected to have 29 points, 3 rebounds and 7 assists for the Knicks.
Check out our NBA player projections for a full range of projected box scores, including points, assists, rebounds and today's NBA first basket picks.
Cavaliers prediction
Our model's projected player stats for the Cavaliers are:
| Player | PTS | REB | AST | 3PM | DFS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| D. Mitchell | 28 | 4 | 6 | 3 | 49 |
| Darius Garland | 19 | 3 | 7 | 3 | 38 |
| De'Andre Hunter | 14 | 4 | 1 | 2 | 25 |
| Evan Mobley | 12 | 7 | 2 | 2 | 30 |
| Jarrett Allen | 12 | 8 | 2 | 0 | 28 |
Knicks prediction
Projected points, rebounds, assists and three-pointers made for the Knicks:
| Player | PTS | REB | AST | 3PM | DFS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jalen Brunson | 29 | 3 | 7 | 3 | 48 |
| K. Towns | 21 | 11 | 2 | 2 | 44 |
| OG Anunoby | 18 | 5 | 2 | 3 | 34 |
| Mikal Bridges | 17 | 5 | 4 | 3 | 35 |
| Josh Hart | 13 | 9 | 6 | 1 | 39 |
Cavs vs. Knicks game-day updates and essential details
Thursday's matchup between the Knicks and Cavaliers at Madison Square Garden is scheduled to start at 12:00 PM ET.
- Who: Cleveland Cavaliers vs. New York Knicks
- Date: Thursday, December 25, 2025
- Time: 12:00 PM ET/9:00AM PT
- Venue: Madison Square Garden
Conclusion
We predict the Knicks, with a 67% win probability, will likely beat the Cavaliers on Christmas Day, with Donovan Mitchell projected for a game-high 49 fantasy points.
AI and automation have enhanced this article to quickly deliver accurate Cavaliers vs. Knicks insights, with human oversight ensuring high editorial quality. Our predictions are sourced from up-to-date data to help you make informed decisions. For additional resources and advice on responsible gambling, please call 1-800-GAMBLER.
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Ryan Leaver uses advanced statistical models and simulations to predict outcomes and provide predictions for the NBA, NFL, college football, college basketball, and soccer. He offers detailed game previews, best bets, props, and futures articles.
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