Last season, the New York Knicks and Cleveland Cavaliers were among the East’s strongest teams, posting impressive 51-31 and 64-18 records. But as the new season begins, things look different. The Knicks face early setbacks with multiple injuries, including uncertainty around star forward Karl-Anthony Towns. His status looms large as New York looks to start strong against a Cleveland team eager to build on last year’s dominance.

Karl-Anthony Towns is officially listed as questionable for Wednesday’s game against the Cavaliers, as reported by ESPN Insider Shams Charania. The Knicks center has been dealing with a right quad strain that caused him to miss the team’s final two preseason contests. His status was initially downgraded to doubtful before being upgraded to questionable just hours before tip-off.

This makes Towns essentially a game-time decision for the season opener. Despite the uncertainty, reports indicate he is still expected to play. The five-time All-Star was largely durable last season, appearing in 72 regular-season games during his first year with the Knicks, scoring 24.4 points on average in 72 games. In his 35 minutes average last season, the Knicks star has had an efficiency of 52.6% from FG and 42% from the three-point line.

So, KAT’s potential absence would create a major void in the New York Knicks‘ frontcourt. Towns scored 1759 points last season, serving as the clear second offensive option behind Jalen Brunson. The team’s offensive game plan heavily relies on his scoring and floor-spacing ability. But who else is on the Knicks’ injury list apart from the New York No. 32?

Who are the other stars on the New York Knicks’ injury report?

The Knicks will definitely be without two key rotation players against Cleveland. Josh Hart has been ruled out with lumbar spasms in his back, an injury he suffered after taking a hard fall during the preseason. Mitchell Robinson is also out as he continues left ankle injury management.

Robinson’s absence is related to load management for the same ankle that required surgery two years ago. OG Anunoby, who was dealing with an ankle sprain, is listed as probable and expected to play. These absences immediately test the depth New York worked to improve this offseason.

The Cavaliers have their own injury concerns to manage. Darius Garland and Max Strus are both recovering from offseason surgeries and remain out indefinitely. De’Andre Hunter is questionable for Cleveland with a knee issue, potentially thinning their wing rotation. So, how does the starting 5 look?

Predicted New York Knicks vs Cleveland Cavaliers starting five

Here’s the starting lineup of the two teams:

Cleveland’s lineup features reigning Defensive Player of the Year Evan Mobley alongside All-Star Jarrett Allen. Lonzo Ball, added in the offseason, will likely come off the bench behind Sam Merrill. The Cavaliers will rely heavily on Donovan Mitchell to initiate their offense. But wondering where to catch the game?

Where to watch the Knicks vs Cavs game live

For those of you wondering where to catch all the action, look no further; we’ve got you covered.

Date: Wednesday, October 22, 2025

Time: 7:00 PM Eastern Time

Where to Watch: NBC and Peacock

Predictions for tonight’s Knicks vs Cavs

The Cleveland Cavaliers are positioned to secure a road victory to open their season. Despite missing Darius Garland, they return the core of their 64-win team from last season, including the formidable frontcourt duo of Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen. Donovan Mitchell gives them a proven closer in tight games.

The Knicks’ multiple absences create significant challenges, particularly in the frontcourt, where they must contend with Cleveland’s size. Even if Karl-Anthony Towns plays, he may be limited by his quad injury. Josh Hart’s defensive versatility and rebounding will be sorely missed on the wing.

While the Knicks have home-court advantage at Madison Square Garden, the Cavaliers’ continuity and defensive identity should prevail. Cleveland swept all four meetings between these teams last season, and their defensive strengths match up well against a potentially short-handed Knicks offense. The prediction is that the Cavaliers will edge out the Knicks in a competitive opener.