Cleveland Cavaliers vs. New York Knicks gamethread

This may be the Cavs’ most important game before the All-Star break, at least in terms of draft odds.

Entering Monday night, the Knicks are a full game worse than the Cavs. Now, as far as odds for the No. 1 pick goes, it means the two teams have the same odds for the No. 1 pick. But also means that the Knicks, as the worst team in the league, can only fall as far as No. 5 overall. The Cavs, meanwhile, could fall as far as No. 7.

Tonight’s game will not decide the draft odds. But it will contribute to it. And the Cavs are already 1-0 against the Knicks this year with tonight’s game and a game in New York later this month still to play.

So, maybe the best outcome to root for tonight is to root for a fun, close game that the Cavs lose. At least if the draft if your top priority.