Houston (32-16) at NY Knicks (32-17)
- When: Feb 3 2025, 7:30 PM
- Where: Madison Square Garden, New York, NY, USA
- TV: NBA TV
Game Preview
New York Favored by 6.0 | Total Set at 224.5
New York Knicks Outlook
The Knicks saw their five-game winning streak snapped in a 128-112 home loss to the Lakers on Saturday, but the bigger concern is the status of OG Anunoby. The elite defender left the game early with a right foot sprain, and his availability remains uncertain. Without Anunoby, New York loses a major defensive anchor, which could impact their ability to cover.
Jalen Brunson continues to be the driving force for the Knicks, averaging 25.9 points per game and orchestrating an offense that ranks 10th in efficiency. The team is 58-23 with Anunoby in the lineup since acquiring him from Toronto but has struggled when he’s absent. The Knicks enter this matchup in third place in the East and will look to close out their five-game homestand with a win.
Even with Anunoby’s potential absence, New York has dominated at Madison Square Garden, going 15-4 at home this season. Their defense remains a strong suit, holding opponents to 109.5 points per game, but without Anunoby, they could be more vulnerable against Houston’s perimeter attack.
Houston Rockets Outlook
The Rockets enter Monday’s contest following a disappointing 110-98 home loss to Brooklyn, their second straight defeat. Houston played that game without star center Alperen Sengun (calf), and point guard Fred VanVleet exited early with an ankle injury. Sengun is questionable for this matchup, while VanVleet has already been ruled out.
Ime Udoka’s squad has been scrappy all season, currently tied for second in the Western Conference, but depth will be tested if Sengun remains sidelined. Jalen Green and Dillon Brooks will have to step up offensively, especially against a Knicks team that could be missing its top defender.
Houston has thrived in close games and remains one of the best teams in the league at covering as an underdog. They have yet to lose three straight games this season, which could make them a sneaky play against the spread.
Betting Trends and Prediction
The Knicks are 15-4 at home this season but could struggle without Anunoby.
The Rockets have been resilient on the road and have been strong against the spread when listed as underdogs.
Houston has struggled without Sengun but has yet to drop three in a row all season.
With New York dealing with injury concerns and Houston fighting to avoid a three-game skid, this game could be tighter than expected. The total at 224.5 feels reasonable given both teams’ defensive strengths, but if Sengun sits, Houston’s offense may struggle. The Knicks should win at home, but Houston keeps it close.
Final Prediction: Rockets to cover (+6). Lean towards the under (224.5) if Sengun sits.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
