Knicks, Cavaliers tip off NBA’s five-game Christmas slate

There are few sturdier NBA traditions than the New York Knicks playing on Christmas Day.

The Knicks hope a pair of familiar faces make it back for the customary clash Thursday when New York hosts the Cleveland Cavaliers to tip off the NBA's five-game holiday slate.

Both teams played Tuesday night, when the short-handed Knicks fell to the host Minnesota Timberwolves 115-104 and the Cavaliers cruised to a 141-118 win over the visiting New Orleans Pelicans.

Starters Jalen Brunson...