NY Knicks (26-15) at Philadelphia (15-22)
- When: Jan 15 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia, PA, USA
- TV: ESPN
Game Preview
The New York Knicks enter their Wednesday night matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers as 6.0-point favorites, with the total set at 220.5 points. Both teams are searching for consistency as they navigate slumps and injury concerns.
Game Breakdown and Betting Preview
The Knicks kicked off 2025 with a bang, winning their ninth straight game on New Year’s Day. However, their momentum fizzled, as they’ve since dropped five of their last seven games. Their latest setback came in a 124-119 home loss to the Detroit Pistons, where defensive struggles were evident.
Despite shooting an impressive 50% from the field, 40.5% from deep, and 82.8% from the line, the Knicks couldn’t contain Cade Cunningham, who torched them for 36 points. Jalen Brunson posted a double-double with 31 points and 11 assists, while Karl-Anthony Towns (26 points, 12 rebounds) and Josh Hart (12 points, 14 rebounds) also had big performances.
However, New York’s defense continues to be an issue, allowing 100 or more points in nine of their last 10 outings. They’ve given up 124 points or more in multiple contests, which raises concerns against any team that can get hot offensively.
Philadelphia’s Injury Woes
The Sixers are in rough shape after a 118-102 loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, where they played without eight of their top 10 contributors. Joel Embiid (foot), Tyrese Maxey (hand), and Paul George (ankle) all sat out, and their availability for Wednesday remains uncertain.
Philadelphia leaned heavily on role players in Tuesday’s defeat. Justin Edwards notched a career-high 25 points, while Jeff Dowtin Jr. contributed 18 points. Head coach Nick Nurse praised their effort but admitted that the absence of key stars was a gut punch for the team.
Key Trends and Betting Angles
Knicks are 4-6 ATS in their last 10 games.
Sixers are 2-8 ATS when missing two or more starters.
The total has gone over in six of the Knicks’ last eight games.
Given Philadelphia’s depleted lineup and New York’s defensive lapses, this game could see a faster pace and higher scoring, making the over 220.5 points an enticing option.
Prediction and Best Bets
Knicks -6.0: With the Sixers potentially missing Embiid, Maxey, and George, New York has a clear advantage in star power and depth.
Over 220.5 points: The Knicks’ defensive struggles combined with Philadelphia’s reliance on young players could lead to another high-scoring contest.
Prop Bet: Jalen Brunson over 26.5 points—Brunson has been the offensive engine and should thrive again if the Sixers can’t slow down backcourt play.
Final Score Prediction:
Knicks 118, 76ers 107 – New York covers the spread as Philadelphia continues to struggle with injuries, and the total goes over in what could be another shootout.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
