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LA Lakers (29-18) at New York (30-18)
- When: Feb 1 2026, 7:00 PM
- Where: Madison Square Garden, New York, NY, USA
- TV: NBC/Peacock
LA Lakers vs New York Preview & Prediction
Spread: New York -4.5
Moneyline: New York (-185)
Total: 229.5
New York Knicks
The Knicks are back. Again. After briefly sending their fan base into full existential crisis mode, New York has decided it actually enjoys winning basketball games. From late December into mid January, the Knicks lost nine of eleven and inspired think pieces, radio rants, and at least one owner quote that aged like unrefrigerated milk.
Then something happened. Shots started falling. Defense remembered its job. Panic subsided.
Since that rough patch, New York has stacked wins like they are trying to erase browser history. They are riding a five game heater, all comfortable victories, and shooting a ridiculous 40.3 percent from three during that stretch. Translation: everything looks smooth, and everyone suddenly believes again.
Friday’s 127 97 dismantling of Portland was never competitive. The Knicks made 19 threes, which is basically their cheat code. When New York hits at least 19 triples, they turn into a problem. Jalen Brunson continues to calmly torch defenses, dropping 26 points while casually playing through an illness because apparently rest is optional. Karl Anthony Towns grabbed 20 rebounds, which feels excessive but also very on brand.
The vibes are good. The spacing is real. Madison Square Garden will be loud and emotionally dramatic as always.
Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers continue to exist in their natural state: confusing but dangerous. They stumbled through a rough stretch earlier this month, then suddenly remembered how offense works and exploded for 142 points against Washington. That win came after a 30 point face plant in Cleveland, which is exactly the kind of emotional whiplash this team specializes in.
The road trip has been solid. Five wins in their last seven games, including a dominant performance where they shot over 61 percent and basically stopped trying by the fourth quarter. Luka Doncic was absurd, posting 37 points, 13 assists, and 11 rebounds like he was checking boxes on a to do list.
The Lakers have been doing all of this without Austin Reaves, who has been out for weeks and might finally return. Reaves is averaging a career best 26.6 points, and his return would give Los Angeles another offensive weapon, though chemistry may take a moment to settle.
The issue remains consistency. When the Lakers lock in, they look unstoppable. When they do not, chaos follows.
Betting Outlook and Prediction
This matchup screams offense. Both teams are shooting well, pushing pace, and defending just enough to avoid embarrassment. New York has been more reliable lately, especially at home, and their three point shooting surge gives them the edge.
Los Angeles can absolutely keep this close, but trusting them to play clean basketball for four quarters is risky business.
Final Score: Knicks 121, Lakers 114
Lean: New York -4.5
Total: Over 229.5
Expect highlights, runs, defensive lapses, loud reactions, and at least one moment where everyone argues about whether this game means something bigger. Welcome to Knicks Lakers basketball.
- NBA Basketball Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
