- This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Chicago (5-0) at New York (2-3)
- When: Nov 2 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Madison Square Garden, New York, NY, USA
- TV: CHSN
Chicago vs New York Preview & Prediction
Spread: New York -7.0
Moneyline: New York (-250)
Total: 234.0
New York Knicks Betting Outlook
The Knicks return home with something to prove after dropping their third straight game, including a frustrating 135-125 loss to the Bulls in Chicago on Friday. That defeat also marked their first setback in NBA Cup group play, and head coach Mike Brown didn’t sugarcoat what went wrong.
Brown pointed directly at his team’s lack of intensity, particularly on defense. The Knicks dug themselves a 22-point hole by halftime, giving up too many easy drives and open looks. “Our defense in the first half was non-existent,” Brown admitted. “We just didn’t bring the physicality we’ve shown before.”
New York’s offense, led by Jalen Brunson’s 29 points, kept them competitive late, while OG Anunoby (26 points) and Mikal Bridges (23 points) added valuable scoring. Karl-Anthony Towns battled through a quad injury to post 22 points and 10 rebounds. Despite the loss, the Knicks’ offensive flow looked better in the second half, which could carry momentum into Sunday’s rematch.
The focus now shifts to resilience. After dropping three straight, New York must reestablish its defensive edge at Madison Square Garden. They’ve shown they can trade buckets with anyone, but regaining their physicality on both ends will decide whether they can halt Chicago’s early-season surge.
Player Prop Pick (Knicks): Jalen Brunson Over 26.5 Points – Brunson thrives in revenge spots and will be aggressive at home after leading the Knicks’ comeback effort on Friday.
Chicago Bulls Betting Outlook
The Bulls are on fire plain and simple. Their 5-0 start is the franchise’s best since 1996-97, when Michael Jordan led Chicago to its fifth championship. They’ve done it with crisp ball movement, efficient shooting, and elite composure in crunch time.
Josh Giddey has been the breakout star of this hot start. The Australian guard poured in a career-high 32 points against New York, just missing a triple-double with 10 rebounds and nine assists. Giddey’s newfound confidence from beyond the arc (45.5% from deep) has opened up the Bulls’ offense, making him a constant mismatch for defenders.
Head coach Billy Donovan praised Giddey’s performance but acknowledged the challenge of managing his heavy workload. “He was the catalyst,” Donovan said. “He attacked, shot well, and made everyone around him better.” The Bulls nearly squandered their big lead Friday but showed maturity by closing out strong, a sign of a team learning how to finish games.
Despite their undefeated start, Donovan knows the Knicks can’t be overlooked. “They’re big, physical, and loaded with scorers,” he said. “They’re going to come out firing in front of their crowd.” The Bulls will look to control the pace again, attacking early and forcing New York to defend in transition.
Player Prop Pick (Bulls): Josh Giddey Over 7.5 Assists – Giddey has been distributing at a high level and thrives at finding teammates when defenses collapse on him.
NBA Prediction & Betting Angle
The Knicks are desperate for a win, and Madison Square Garden should provide a spark. Expect New York to tighten up defensively and push the tempo with Brunson leading the charge. Still, the Bulls’ chemistry and offensive rhythm make them a live underdog, especially with Giddey in peak form.
New York should bounce back at home and grab the win, but Chicago’s pace and efficiency make the Over 234.0 the more appealing play. This rematch has all the makings of another high-scoring showdown.
Final Score: Knicks 122, Bulls 117
Lean: Chicago +7.0
Total: Over 237.5
- NBA Basketball Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
