Last spring, the Knicks swept Cleveland on their way to the NBA championship. On Saturday night, that memory will follow both teams into Cleveland, where the Cavaliers get an early chance to show that their story has changed. As of Thursday, both teams stood 4-4, so this is more than a rematch. It is a chance to build momentum in a crowded new season.

New York arrives after two straight wins, including a 135-point outburst against Chicago on Nov. 4. Jalen Brunson leads the charge with 25.6 points per game. He is a crafty guard who uses quick stops, fakes, and pull-up jumpers to find space even when defenders crowd him. Cleveland will need to make every one of his looks difficult, especially late in the game when Brunson can take control.

The Cavaliers have their own fast, fearless scorer in Donovan Mitchell. His 22.5 points per game lead a Cleveland attack that scores 119.3 points a night, nearly 10 more than New York. Mitchell can burst toward the rim or rise for a three-pointer, while James Harden uses his passing to set up teammates. Harden averages 6.3 assists, showing how often he creates open shots for others. After two close losses to Oklahoma City, Cleveland will want crisper decisions with the ball and fewer empty trips. The Cavaliers give it away 14 times per game, which is an area New York’s active defenders can attack.

The biggest showdown may happen near the basket. Karl-Anthony Towns has been a giant force for the Knicks, averaging 13.6 rebounds to go with nearly 20 points. He can score inside, but he also shoots from far beyond the arc. That can pull a center away from the hoop and open lanes for Brunson. Cleveland answers with Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen, a long, sturdy pair built to guard the paint. Mobley has added a sharp outside touch of his own, making 48.6 percent of his three-point tries while shooting 56 percent overall. If he makes Towns move on defense, Cleveland’s guards should find more room to drive.

Rebounding will be another tug-of-war. New York collects 48.3 rebounds per game, slightly ahead of Cleveland’s 47.5. Josh Hart normally adds extra hustle on the glass and creates steals, but he is listed out with an expected return date of Saturday. The Knicks may need Towns, OG Anunoby, and Mikal Bridges to chase more loose balls. Cleveland’s Peyton Watson is also listed out with a hamstring issue, despite an expected return date of Friday, which could limit the Cavaliers’ wing depth.

New York has a strong recent rhythm, and its championship core knows how to handle a tough road setting. Cleveland’s home crowd and its scoring punch can make this close, but the Knicks’ rebounding, defense, and Brunson’s late-game skill give them the edge. Prediction: the Knicks win.

Knicks Return to Cleveland With a Champion’s Target