A historic rally set the tone for the Eastern Conference Finals, and now all eyes turn to Game 2 as our NBA player prop projections zeroes in on the Cavaliers vs. Knicks matchup at Madison Square Garden — highlighting several high-value betting opportunities as Cleveland looks to regroup.
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 Thursday, May 21.
Cavaliers vs Knicks computer picks for Game 2
 Cavaliers |
 Knicks |
|---|---|
| Mitchell u26.5 points -112 |
Brunson o27.5 points -110 |
| Harden o18.5 points -112 |
Towns o11.5 rebounds +100 |
| Allen o7.5 rebounds -112 |
Bridges o1.5 3-pointers +100 |
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Cavaliers Game 2 computer picks
Donovan Mitchell Under 26.5 points (-112)
Projection: 25.64 points
Donovan Mitchell looked every bit the steady force while the Cleveland Cavaliers controlled most of Game 1 against the New York Knicks — until the fourth quarter hit, when he managed just three points the rest of the way in an overtime collapse.
He still finished with 29 points, clearing this prop line even in defeat, but the current projection feels a bit shaken—perhaps too hesitant to trust that Mitchell can deliver a bounce-back performance and lead a Game 2 redemption.
James Harden Over 18.5 points (-112)
Projection: 20.31 points
James Harden’s Game 1 showing was a letdown—no sugarcoating it. The Cavaliers veteran managed just 15 points on 5-of-16 shooting, a far cry from what Cleveland needs.
Whether it was fatigue from a quick series turnaround or the Knicks simply locking him down, the Cavs won’t stand a chance unless Harden sharpens up in Game 2. Another 31% shooting night—or anything close to it—won’t cut it if Cleveland hopes to steal one on the road.
Jarrett Allen Over 7.5 rebounds (-112)
Projection: 7.68 rebounds
Evan Mobley has been so productive that the Cavaliers may have lost sight of Jarrett Allen a bit and that can’t happen, especially after Game 1.
Cleveland needed strong contributions from both bigs to avoid the collapse they suffered, but Allen was quiet, finishing with just 10 points and seven rebounds in the opener.
If the Cavs want to steady themselves in Game 2, they’ll need to get him more involved offensively and bring a much more aggressive presence on the glass after hovering over this prop line on Tuesday.
Knicks Game 2 computer picks
Jalen Brunson Over 27.5 points (-110)
Projection: 27.94 points
Everyone’s talking about Jalen Brunson — and for good reason.
He once again played the hero in Game 1, erupting for 38 points and powering the Knicks to a stunning overtime win. His fiery leadership has been the driving force behind New York’s playoff surge, and the buzz has only grown louder since Tuesday’s comeback.
Don’t expect that hot streak to cool off now. In Brunson, you can trust with clearing this points prop line.
Karl-Anthony Towns over 11.5 rebounds (+100)
Projection: 11.93 rebounds
Karl-Anthony Towns opened the series with a strong 13-point, 13-rebound double-double and has been a force on the glass all postseason. He’s now hit double-digit rebounds in seven of New York’s 11 playoff games, consistently controlling the boards.
With Towns dominating down low, expect him to keep that momentum rolling at home and clear this rebounding prop once again.
Mikal Bridges Over 1.5 3-pointers (+100)
Projection: 1.73 3-pointers
Mikal Bridges delivered a strong two-way showing in the Knicks’ Game 1 win, finishing with 18 points on 64% shooting Tuesday night, including a couple of treys at a 50% clip from deep.
With New York riding high, Bridges should once again find his rhythm — making the Over on his 3-point prop a live play in Game 2 tonight.
How to watch Cavaliers vs Knicks Game 2
| Location | Madison Square Garden, New York, NY |
| Date | Thursday, May 21, 2026 |
| Tip-off | 8 p.m. ET |
| TV | ESPN |
Not intended for use in MA.
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