NBA playoffs 2026 betting, odds: Best bets for Knicks-Cavaliers Game 1, series

At the start of the 2025-26 NBA season, there were two clear favorites projected to clash in the Eastern Conference Finals, and while both experienced some highs and some tumultuous lows during the regular season, the New York Knicks and the Cleveland Cavaliers have arrived and are set to play Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals on Tuesday night at Madison Square Garden. Here is a betting preview with actionable edges for Game 1 and the series, ordered by the biggest to the smallest perceived edge. Game 1 best bet: Over 217.

5 (-115) I love this over spot for Game 1. My model projects this game at 219. 6, and the opening market consensus of 216.

5 is already creeping up. Based on my number, that would indicate about a 4% edge even after paying the house vig. The unopinionated model and the early market signals from other sharp bettors both indicate an over play.

Then we can layer on the subjective reasons. Play 2026 Soccer Pick 'Em with FOX One and make your picks for the world's biggest soccer tournament When the Knicks played Game 1 against the Philadelphia 76ers last round — a team on short rest coming off a Game 7 road win with 48 hours between tip off — there was a clear emphasis in New York’s gameplan to push the pace and try and tire out its opponent. The Knicks played at a higher pace in that game than they did the second half of the regular season, a rare thing to see in the NBA playoffs.