New York (40-22) at LA Clippers (33-29)
- When: Mar 7 2025, 10:30 PM
- Where: Intuit Dome, Inglewood, CA, USA
- TV: MSG
New York Knicks vs. LA Clippers Betting Preview
Spread: Clippers -8.0
Total: 217.5
Both teams come into this matchup with something to prove, but the Clippers have the edge with fresher legs and home-court advantage. The Knicks, playing on the second night of a back-to-back, face a tough task—especially with Jalen Brunson likely sidelined after exiting Thursday’s overtime loss to the Lakers. The Clippers, meanwhile, are looking to build momentum after James Harden’s explosive 50-point performance against the Pistons.
Los Angeles Clippers: Back on Track After Harden’s Big Night?
After struggling through a brutal stretch of eight straight road games, the Clippers (39-21) finally returned home Wednesday and snapped a three-game skid with a 123-115 win over Detroit. James Harden stole the show, dropping 50 points on 14-of-24 shooting while knocking down six threes.
Bogdan Bogdanovic, acquired at the trade deadline, had his best game as a Clipper with 23 points, while Ivica Zubac dominated inside with 22 points and 11 rebounds. The Clippers were missing Kawhi Leonard (rest), Norman Powell (hamstring), and Derrick Jones Jr. (groin), yet they still managed to get back on track.
With Leonard expected to return, the Clippers should be in a strong position against a tired Knicks squad. Harden’s ability to take over games is a huge asset, and his playmaking should create easy opportunities for his teammates if New York’s defense focuses too much on him.
Key Betting Trends:
Clippers are 21-9 ATS at home this season.
LA is 3-1 ATS in their last four games against New York.
The Over has hit in 4 of the Clippers’ last 5 home games.
Player Props to Watch:
James Harden Over 8.5 Assists – With Kawhi returning, Harden should shift back into facilitator mode.
Kawhi Leonard Over 22.5 Points – He’s well-rested and should take on a bigger scoring load.
Ivica Zubac Over 11.5 Rebounds – New York struggled to contain Anthony Davis on the boards last night, and Zubac could feast inside.
New York Knicks: Can They Survive Without Brunson?
The Knicks (36-25) are in a tough spot after a grueling overtime battle against the Lakers on Thursday. Jalen Brunson, their best player and offensive engine, injured his ankle late in the game after scoring 39 points and dishing 10 assists. While he toughed it out to make two free throws before heading to the locker room, it’s unlikely he suits up on Friday.
Without Brunson, the Knicks will need Karl-Anthony Towns and OG Anunoby to step up. Towns returned from a personal absence Thursday and posted 12 points with 14 rebounds. Anunoby scored 20, while Josh Hart added 18. But New York’s offense fell apart in crunch time, managing just 15 points in the fourth quarter and failing to execute down the stretch.
On the road, without Brunson, and playing on tired legs, the Knicks face an uphill battle against a Clippers squad that is regaining its rhythm.
Key Betting Trends:
Knicks are 14-15 ATS on the road this season.
The Under has hit in 5 of their last 7 road games.
New York has lost consecutive games for the second time in seven contests.
Player Props to Watch:
OG Anunoby Over 16.5 Points – With Brunson out, he’ll need to take on more scoring responsibility.
Josh Hart Over 8.5 Rebounds – He’s been crashing the glass aggressively since returning to the lineup.
Knicks Team Total Under 105.5 – Without Brunson, their offense could struggle to keep up.
Final Prediction & Best Bets
The Clippers should take advantage of New York’s fatigue and injury situation to secure another win at home. With Harden in rhythm and Leonard back in the lineup, Los Angeles has too much firepower for a depleted Knicks squad.
Best Bet: Clippers -8.0
LA has been dominant at home, and New York will have trouble keeping up without Brunson.
Lean Under 217.5
The Knicks will struggle to score without their floor general, and the Clippers’ defense should tighten up at home.
James Harden Over 8.5 Assists
With Kawhi back, Harden should shift back into playmaker mode.
Expect the Clippers to control this game from start to finish, while the Knicks may struggle to generate enough offense to keep it close.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
