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Detroit (40-13) at New York (35-20)
- When: Feb 19 2026, 7:30 PM
- Where: Madison Square Garden, New York
- TV: MSG
Detroit vs New York Preview & Prediction
Spread: New York -4.5
Moneyline: New York (-180)
Total: 22.0
The Knicks return from the All-Star break laying 4.5 at home, but this matchup carries more weight than a typical February game. Detroit has quietly become the East’s measuring stick, and New York still has something to prove after getting handled twice by the Pistons earlier this season.
New York Knicks Betting Preview
New York stumbled midseason but responded with a dominant 10-2 stretch heading into the break. Blowout wins became routine, and the defensive shift has been the real betting angle. After struggling to hold teams under 110 early in the year, the Knicks tightened up, allowing fewer than 110 points in nine of their last 12 games.
They demolished Philadelphia 138-89 in their final game before the break and now sit firmly in the playoff mix. The market is respecting their form, which is why they’re favored here despite Detroit’s superior record.
The key for bettors backing New York is defense and pace control. If they dictate tempo and force half-court sets, they can flip the script from those earlier losses.
Detroit Pistons Betting Preview
Detroit owns one of the best records in the league and has been cashing tickets consistently. The Pistons are allowing just 109.3 points per game, one of the top defensive marks in the NBA. However, suspensions loom large.
Isaiah Stewart remains out, and All-Star Jalen Duren is also unavailable. Together, they account for 27.7 points, 15.5 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks per game. That interior absence matters, especially against a Knicks team that thrives on physical play and second-chance opportunities.
Detroit rarely drops consecutive games and has not lost three straight all season. But this is a tougher spot without frontcourt depth.
Final Predictions
Expect a playoff-style atmosphere and tighter rotations. The total at 224 feels slightly inflated given both teams’ recent defensive focus and Detroit’s missing bigs.
New York covers the -4.5 at home and gets its statement win. Lean Under 224 in a more physical, grind-it-out matchup.
Final Score: Knicks 112, Pistons 106
Lean: New York -4.5
Total: Under 224.0
- NBA Basketball Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
