Knicks need Mikal Bridges ready for a familiar Cavs test

Alexander Wilson argues that the New York Knicks will need Mikal Bridges prepared to take on the defensive assignment against Donovan Mitchell when facing the Cleveland Cavaliers. With Josh Hart sidelined due to right ankle soreness, New York's perimeter defense faces an increased test against Cleveland's primary offensive options.

Wilson suggests using Bridges to pressure Mitchell at the point of attack with coordinated defensive help, while rotating OG Anunoby into the matchup when necessary. The Knicks swept the Cavaliers in four games during the previous Eastern Conference finals, but the writer stresses that New York must diversify coverages to contain Mitchell, James Harden, and the rest of Cleveland's offense.