Basketball Players who Played for Cavaliers and Knicks
There is a good chance that if you’ve found this page then you’re playing the Immaculate Grid.
That also means that today’s grid has asked for players that have played for both the Cleveland Cavaliers and New York Knicks.
And, it also means that you’re probably stuck on this particular box and you’re looking for a little help. Sound about right so far?
Well, good news, you’re in the right place.
I’ve done some research and have found players who played for both the Cavaliers and the Knicks.
J.R. Smith
J.R. Smith was drafted straight out of high school by the New Orleans Hornets with the 18th overall pick in the 2004 NBA Draft. Over his career, Smith played for several NBA teams including the Nuggets, Knicks, Cavaliers, and Lakers.
His most noteworthy accomplishments came with the Cavaliers, where he was a key player in their 2016 championship run, providing crucial scoring and perimeter defense alongside LeBron James and Kyrie Irving. Smith would win another championship with LeBron in 2020 and the Lakers, but in a much more limited role.
Smith’s time in the NBA was marked by high-scoring performances and a streaky shooting style, which earned him both praise and criticism. He was known for his ability to catch fire from three-point range and go on impressive scoring runs.
*Smith was the most popular pick for this square in a previous grid (Grid 20)
Derrick Rose
Derrick Rose was selected as the first overall pick by the Chicago Bulls in the 2008 NBA Draft. During his time with the Bulls, Rose earned NBA Rookie of the Year honors and became the youngest player in league history to win the Most Valuable Player award in the 2010-2011 season.
Unfortunately, Rose’s career was hindered by significant knee injuries, including a devastating ACL tear in 2012. Despite these setbacks, he managed to contribute valuable minutes with various teams such as the Knicks, Cavaliers, Timberwolves, and Pistons.
While with the Timberwolves, Rose recorded a career-high 50-point game, and he later played a vital role in helping the Knicks reach the playoffs in the 2020-2021 season. His career is marked by incredible talent and resilience, making him one of the most memorable point guards of his generation.
Rose Key Stats
- Rookie of the Year (Bulls)
- MVP (Bulls)
- All-NBA (Bulls)
- All-Star (Bulls)
- 20+ Points/Game Season (Bulls)
- 5+ Assists/Game Season (Bulls, Pistons)
Robin Lopez
Robin Lopez was selected 15th overall by the Phoenix Suns in the 2008 NBA Draft. In his early career with the Suns, Lopez provided reliable depth at the center position, known for his rim protection and rebounding.
His time in Phoenix was followed by a successful stint with the Portland Trail Blazers, where he became a full-time starter and was appreciated for his defensive efforts and hard screens.
Lopez then had brief but impactful spells with the New York Knicks, Chicago Bulls, and Milwaukee Bucks, providing a steady inside presence and veteran leadership. In recent years, Lopez has continued to bounce around with multiple teams with varied levels of success.
