New York Knicks: Five Keys To Defeating Cleveland Cavaliers

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Jun 16, 2016; Cleveland, OH, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers center Tristan Thompson (13) dunks in the fourth quarter against the Golden State Warriors in game six of the NBA Finals at Quicken Loans Arena. Cleveland won 115-101. Mandatory Credit: David Richard-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Limit Second Chances

The New York Knicks have a genuine opportunity to defeat the Cleveland Cavaliers at Quicken Loans Arena. Though there may be other points of emphasis, not much else will matter if the Knicks can’t excel in this area.

If the Knicks allow the Cavaliers to consistently pull down offensive rebounds, achieving victory will be an overwhelmingly difficult task.

Tristan Thompson and Kevin Love are two of the best offensive rebounders in the NBA. Their tenacity on the offensive glass was a defining factor during the 2016 NBA Finals, and the same could transpire during the regular season opener.

Joakim Noah, Kristaps Porzingis, Carmelo Anthony, Willy Hernangomez, Kyle O’Quinn, and Marshall Plumlee are all quality rebounders, but that doesn’t guarantee success.

If New York successfully limits second chance scoring opportunities, then perfection will be less of a necessity and more of an ambition. If it allows the Cavaliers to consistently create second chances, however, then its reshaped roster could fall apart defensively.

This will be the difference between New York needing big offensive numbers and simply striving to achieve them.

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