New York Knicks vs. Cleveland Cavaliers odds and best bets

The NBA played 11 games Sunday, and I am not sure there was a noteworthy story from any of them. I don't know why the league went so heavy on games this past Sunday, to be honest, or why the schedule is so light Monday. 

The Monday slate is light has just four games on it. This one caught my eye with the Knicks winning Sunday to end their losing streak. Forward RJ Barrett had the kind of game the Knicks have been waiting for since he broke into the league, leading the team in scoring, rebounding and assists. 

Cleveland did not play Sunday, but the Cavaliers must manage the loss of long forward Lauri Markkanen, who exited early in their win against the Oklahoma City Thunder on the weekend. Forward depth is one thing they can survive though thanks to the play of rookie Evan Mobley. 

Game Info

New York Knicks vs. Cleveland Cavaliers
Monday, January 24, 2022
7:00 p.m. ET
Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse, Cleveland
Bally Sports Ohio

Betting Odds
Spread: Knicks +6 (-110), Cavaliers -6 (-110)
Total: 202
Moneyline: Knicks +200, Cavaliers -240

Bets I Like

Cavaliers -6

The Knicks have posted decent numbers in back-to-back situations this season, but I don't like the matchup tonight. The Cavs are a very stingy defensive team, and against some tired legs, they are going to be even more effective. Cleveland is the younger team too so look for its energy to be apparent early, especially juxtaposed to New York's tired veterans. These teams met early in the season, and the Cavs won by 17. Some of the available personnel changed on both sides, but Cleveland still has lots of advantages to win easily at home. 

Prop to Consider

Darius Garland 25+ Points (+215)

Note the payoff here. Garland was solid in the last game these teams played, but Ricky Rubio led the team in scoring. (He now is out for the season, along with Collin Sexton.) Garland is the only consistent scorer the Cavs have in the backcourt right now, and he should have lots of opportunities to have a big game. He has not scored less than 20 points in his last five games with a high of 32, and his minutes are there every night. The return is the key, or you can take him at over 20.5 points (-110)...also a very good bet.