5 Facts to Know: Knicks vs. Cavaliers

Tonight will be the first time these teams have played since November 13, a 104-101 Cavaliers victory. 

The game featured a fourth-quarter comeback by the Cavaliers but is more remembered for the first-quarter altercation between Frank Ntilikina, Enes Kanter and LeBron James. 

Ntilikina shoved LeBron, who then exchanged words with Kanter. LeBron shoved Kanter, and both were given technical fouls.

LeBron and Kanter continued after the game and since in a war or words, but unfortunately, it looks like we won’t get to see them on the court together as Kanter (back, wrist) is doubtful for tonight’s game.  

With Kanter sidelined the past four games, Kyle O’Quinn has stepped up and filled in admirably at the center position.

O’Quinn had 15 points, 16 rebounds, five assists and four blocks Saturday against the Bucks and is the first Knick since Patrick Ewing in 1999 to record at least 13 points, 12 rebounds and three blocks in three straight games. 

In addition to Kanter, Tim Hardaway Jr. (ankle) is also doubtful. Emmanuel Mudiay will miss his third straight game with a concussion. 

For the Cavaliers, point guards George Hill (ankle) and Jose Calderon (hamstring) returned to practice Sunday but it is unclear if either will suit up tonight. However, Rodney Hood (Achilles) is probable after leaving Friday’s game early.

In his 15th season, LeBron is showing no signs of slowing down and is playing some of the best basketball of his career. 

Since February 7 (28 games), LeBron is averaging a triple-double with 30.3 points, 10.1 rebounds and 10.2 assists and is coming off a 44-point effort Friday against the 76ers. 

Cleveland has won 11 of the last 12 games with New York, including eight straight at Madison Square Garden. In those eight games, the Cavaliers have won by an average margin of 11.1 points.