The New York Knicks will reportedly open the 2016-17 season on the road against LeBron James and the defending champion Cleveland Cavaliers.
The New York Knicks opened last season on the road against the Milwaukee Bucks with a resounding 122-97 victory. This time won’t be so easy.
According to Ian Begley of ESPN New York, the Knicks will be traveling to Cleveland for a matchup with the defending champion Cavaliers.
One early version of the NBA schedule, which is subject to change, had NYK opening @ Cavs, per people who've seen this preliminary schedule
— Ian Begley (@IanBegley) August 10, 2016
The Knicks will have to deal with one of the best home court advantages in the NBA. The Cleveland crowd will be especially hot on opening night as the Cavs will be unveiling their championship banner.
On the court, the Knicks will have to contend with their nemesis LeBron James. The 12-time All-Star has dominated the Knicks, averaging 27.4 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 6.8 assists in 44 career games.
James will once again be matched up with his close friend Carmelo Anthony. Melo will always be compared to James. Both players came into the league in 2003 as teenagers and play the same position.
Anthony and the Knicks were winless in four tries against the Cavs in 2015-16. A victory on the road against the champs would be huge for the confidence of this new group of Knicks.
