Pregame analysis and predictions of the New York Knicks vs. Cleveland Cavaliers NBA game to be played on February 21, 2025 on ESPN.

Donovan Mitchell scored 27 points, Evan Mobley added 21 and the Cleveland Cavaliers bullied the New York Knicks from the start Friday night, winning 142-105 in a matchup of two of the Eastern Conference’s top teams.

Donovan Mitchell scored 27 points, Evan Mobley added 21 and the Cleveland Cavaliers bullied the New York Knicks from the start Friday night, winning 142-105 in a matchup of two of the Eastern Conference's top teams.

Cleveland Cavaliers' Darius Garland (10) during the first half of an NBA basketball game against the Brooklyn Nets Thursday, Feb. 20, 2025, in New York. (AP Photo/)

But after the disappointing showing, Knicks guard Jalen Brunson made sure not to make excuses for New York's play on the night. “You can’t explain it... I’m at a loss for words really." Brunson said.

The New York Knicks provided a major injury update for Josh Hart and OG Anunoby ahead of Friday night's matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

In front of a national television audience, the Cavs thoroughly dismantled one of their top competitors in the East. Mitchell and Mobley combined for 48 points.

The New York Knicks have done everything except beat the NBA’s elite this season. And after this weekend, it feels like they never will. After the Eastern Conference-leading Cleveland Cavaliers thumped New York by 37 points Friday night,

The Cavaliers throttled the Knicks Friday night, though they also dealt with Jarrett Allen leaving the game. Here's how the game unfolded.