“You have not been in New York suffering for 50 years “ - Stephen A. Smith raves about probable Knicks vs. Cavaliers matchup

As the regular season comes to a close, the New York Knicks are gearing up for the postseason. With a few games to go, they sit in fifth place of the Eastern Conference with a record of 42-33.

If the playoffs were to start today, the Knicks would find themselves in a matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers. As the fourth and fifth seeds, many view it as a series that could go either way.

During a recent episode of ESPN's "First Take," Stephen A. Smith and Kendrick Perkins began breaking down this possible showdown. It was there that the longtime analyst stated his reason why New York is in no position to lose this series.

"You have not been in New York suffering for 50 years."

"I've said it before and I'll say it again, the New York Knicks cannot lose to Donovan Mitchell."

Back in the offseason, it seemed like Donovan Mitchell was on his way to New York. However, negotiations fell apart and the All-Star guard ended up being traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers.

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.@stephenasmith is going to LOSE IT if the Knicks lose to the Cavs and Donovan Mitchell if they match up

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.@stephenasmith is going to LOSE IT if the Knicks lose to the Cavs and Donovan Mitchell if they match up 😭 https://t.co/F9wrOCvfqC

Can the New York Knicks beat the Cleveland Cavaliers in a playoff series?

Stephen A. might have been emotional in his rant, but he brings up a valid point. New York is in no position to lose to Donovan Mitchell in the postseason. After close he came to being sent there, having him bounce them in the first round would not be a good look for the franchise.

As far as the matchup goes, it's one that could go either way. It's going to come down to the play of the top players.

Both sides are young, physical teams with great talent in the backcourt. Jalen Brunson burst on the scene this year after signing with New York, but he'll have his hands full against the Cavaliers. Mitchell and Darius Garland are arguably one of the top guard duos in the NBA today.

One interesting matchup to watch in this series if it happens is Julius Randle vs. Evan Mobley. Randle has returned to his All-Star form this year, but Mobley is among the best defenders in the league.

In 75 games this year, Randle is averaging 25.4 points, 10.1 rebounds, and 4.2 assists. If New York is going to make a deep run, they'll need this level of production from him. However, if Mobley is able to make him a non-factor with his defense, Cleveland will likely come away victorious.

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