Kenny Atkinson claims Cavaliers analytically lead Knicks despite 3-0 deficit
Cleveland Cavaliers head coach Kenny Atkinson has claimed his side are outperforming the New York Knicks in expected wins, despite facing a 3-0 deficit in the Eastern Conference Finals.
The Ohio franchise are on the brink of elimination after suffering three consecutive double-digit defeats.
However, the Cavaliers boss believes the underlying data tells a completely different story about the best-of-seven series.
Underlying data reveals shooting disparities
Atkinson revealed that predictive models suggest Cleveland should currently hold a 2-1 advantage over their conference rivals.
“I think analytically, I think we’ve won… we’re two out of three in the expected wins,” Atkinson told reporters.
He explained that New York are vastly overperforming their expected shooting percentages, while his own squad are enduring an uncharacteristic slump.
The numbers heavily support the coach’s assessment regarding overall shot quality and execution.
Struggles from beyond the arc
Cleveland have struggled immensely from three-point range, converting just 32% of their uncontested opportunities throughout the postseason matchup.
In contrast, the Knicks have punished those exact same defensive lapses by making 42% of their open attempts from deep.
Saturday’s 121-108 defeat highlighted this sharp contrast, with the Cavaliers missing 10 of their 17 wide-open perimeter shots.
“Last night, our expected score was like one point or two… us shooting way below expected, them shooting way over. I know no one wants to hear that.”
Knicks chase historic NBA Finals return
No team in NBA history has ever successfully overturned a 3-0 series deficit to advance in the playoffs.
The surging Knicks are currently riding a formidable 10-game winning streak across all postseason fixtures.
A victory in Game 4 on Monday would secure New York’s first NBA Finals appearance since 1999.
Despite the overwhelming historical odds, Atkinson maintains absolute belief in his roster’s overall process and their commanding early lead in Game 1.