It took some time, but the Eastern Conference Finals are finally here. Our NBA player prop projections are set for Game 1, as the Cleveland Cavaliers face the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden, with the model uncovering several high-value betting spots.
By analyzing the data against current market lines, we’ve identified where the strongest edges exist.
These Cavaliers vs. Knicks predictions are driven by numbers instead of guesswork.
If you’re building your card, here are the model’s top NBA picks for Tuesday, May 19.
Cavaliers vs Knicks computer picks for Game 1
 Cavaliers |
 Knicks |
|---|---|
| Mitchell u26.5 points -112 |
Brunson o27.5 points -120 |
| Harden o6.5 assists -112 |
Towns o11.5 rebounds +102 |
| Mobley o8.5 rebounds +102 |
Anunoby o15.5 points -110 |
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Cavaliers Game 1 computer picks
Donovan Mitchell Under 26.5 points (-112)
Projection: 25.95 points
The Cleveland Cavaliers should face a slower pace in this matchup against the New York Knicks, who’ve played at the league’s slowest tempo over the last 25 games — making it tougher for Donovan Mitchell to dictate offensively.
It’s also a challenging spot for getting to the line, as opposing starting shooting guards have averaged just 1.9 free-throw attempts per game at Madison Square Garden over the last 10 — third-fewest in the league.
Coming off a Game 7 on Sunday, the quick turnaround combined with a well-rested Knicks squad puts Mitchell at a disadvantage to open the series.
James Harden Over 6.5 assists (-112)
Projection: 6.57 assists
Mitchell won’t be the only star under pressure, James Harden should also feel the full force of New York’s defense in Game 1.
The Knicks understand how vital Harden is to Cleveland’s offense, and keying in on him could force more playmaking than scoring. He either cleared or came close to this assists line in five of seven games last series against Detroit, showing a strong tendency to facilitate when defenses tighten up.
If New York clamps down, expect Harden to lean into the distributor role and rack up the dimes.
Evan Mobley Over 8.5 rebounds (+102)
Projection: 8.56 rebounds
Evan Mobley’s rebounds prop has been a steady moneymaker throughout the Cavaliers’ playoff run, and after a 12-board performance in Game 7 against the Pistons on Sunday, there’s little reason to expect a slowdown.
Cleveland has thrived on the glass on the road, ranking sixth in the league with 13.0 offensive rebounds per game over its last 10, with Mobley playing a major role in that dominance. Look for him to bring that same energy into the Big Apple.
Knicks Game 1 computer picks
Jalen Brunson Over 27.5 points (-120)
Projection: 27.92 points
Jalen Brunson has averaged 31.4 points per game over his last five home outings, which is 3.9 points higher than his season-long home average.
The Knicks could also benefit from their full week of rest, a boost that could further elevate Brunson’s production as New York looks to keep defending home court throughout its postseason run.
Karl-Anthony Towns Over 11.5 rebounds (+102)
Projection: 12.24 rebounds
The Knicks rank fourth in the NBA in offensive rebounding at home this season, and for Karl-Anthony Towns, the key to clearing this rebound line in Game 1 will be staying on the floor and avoiding foul trouble.
That was an issue at times during the series against Atlanta, but New York managed those minutes well in his absence. When Towns is active, though, he remains a strong presence on the glass — positioning him to do enough damage on the boards to push this prop Over tonight.
OG Anunoby Over 15.5 points (-110)
Projection: 16.53 points
OG Anunoby has averaged 22.0 points per game over his last five outings, 4.8 points higher than his season-long mark, highlighting an uptick in offensive production.
New York’s quick work in the series against Atlanta also gave him valuable time to recover from the hamstring issue that forced him to miss the final two games. He’s expected to be available for Game 1 against Cleveland, and the Knicks are clearly more dangerous when he’s operating at full strength.
If the injury doesn’t limit him, Anunoby should slide right back into a key offensive role as New York looks to keep its attack rolling.
How to watch Cavaliers vs Knicks Game 1
| Location | Madison Square Garden, New York, NY |
| Date | Tuesday, May 19, 2026 |
| Tip-off | 8:00 p.m. ET |
| TV | ESPN |
Not intended for use in MA.
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