Two Keys to Help the Cavaliers Secure a Game 1 Victory

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Making it to the Eastern Conference Finals is monumental for the Cleveland Cavaliers. The ECF is a promised land the Cavaliers have not reached since LeBron James took them there in 2018. Now, they’re storming back three years after trading for All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell.

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While the Cavs flashed potential in recent years, they were also limited to second-round exits in that span. Facing eventual NBA Finals teams in both years, the Cavaliers did not seem to have the necessary pieces to get over the hump. However, their opponent in this series appears to be the most finals-worthy candidate from this wide-open Eastern Conference.

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The New York Knicks have taken full advantage of the absence of title contenders like the Boston Celtics and Indiana Pacers this postseason. Both of the Knicks’ series thus far have been comfortable for them. This is despite their first-round series against the Atlanta Hawks stretching to a deceptive six games.

So what cards must the Cavaliers play to secure a Game 1 victory?

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