The Knicks rank just outside the bottom 10 in defensive efficiency, and in their six losses to Cleveland, OKC and Boston, they have surrendered an average of 126 points. These are not championship-contending numbers, even with a top-shelf offense.

The Knicks own their best post-All-Star break record in decades. But that doesn't mean they are legitimate title contenders — until proven otherwise.

The Cleveland Cavaliers boosted their NBA-best record with a 142-105 romp past the New York Knicks on Friday, tightening their grip on the Eastern Conference lead with an all-around dominant display.

The East-leading Cleveland Cavaliers host the hot-shooting New York Knicks in a national TV spot on Friday night.