Golden State (33-28) at New York (40-20)
- When: Mar 4 2025, 7:30 PM
- Where: Madison Square Garden, New York, NY, USA
- TV: TNT
NBA Matchup: Knicks Host Warriors in Key Battle at Madison Square Garden
New York Knicks (-5) | Total: 229.5
Golden State Warriors: Battling Fatigue on a Grueling Road Stretch
The Golden State Warriors are in the midst of a brutal travel schedule, playing their 11th road game in their last 13 contests. However, they are coming off a convincing 119-101 win over Charlotte on Monday, where no player logged more than 32 minutes—keeping them relatively fresh for this back-to-back.
Golden State’s recent form has been solid, going 8-2 since acquiring Jimmy Butler and 8-1 in games he has played. Butler returned from a back issue Monday, scoring 13 points with 4 assists in 31 minutes.
Currently, the Warriors hold onto the sixth seed in the Western Conference, but coach Steve Kerr knows there’s no room for complacency in a tight playoff race:
“Fantastic, but obviously everybody’s bunched together. We can’t celebrate. We could very easily find ourselves in ninth after the New York game. We just have to keep going.”
Golden State’s defense has stepped up in this stretch, allowing under 105 points per game in their last five wins, and they will need that same intensity against a Knicks team riding momentum at home.
Key Trends for Golden State:
8-2 in their last 10 games overall
5-2 against the spread (ATS) in their last 7 road games
Under has hit in 4 of their last 5 games
With Stephen Curry still leading the charge offensively and Butler adding defensive toughness, the Warriors will look to steal another road win despite their demanding schedule.
New York Knicks: Finding Ways to Win Despite Roster Uncertainty
The New York Knicks have been thriving despite an ever-changing lineup, winning 13 of their last 17 games. Coming off a 116-112 overtime victory in Miami, they return home for a quick stop before heading out west for a five-game road trip.
With Boston maintaining control of the East’s top spot, the Knicks remain focused on closing the gap. However, coach Tom Thibodeau’s rotations have been unpredictable, as he opted for Miles McBride over Mikal Bridges late against Miami.
“Whoever has got it going, we’re going to ride those guys a little bit more,” Thibodeau explained. “The most important thing is the team winning. Mikal is fully engaged in the team. He does a lot of the dirty work for us, and it’s much appreciated.”
Key Trends for New York:
9-3 ATS in their last 12 home games
4-1 straight up in their last five games
Under has hit in 3 of their last 4 games
New York’s defensive pressure has been crucial, with McBride stepping up against Miami’s Tyler Herro to force key late-game misses. The Knicks will need that same energy against Curry and the Warriors’ perimeter shooters.
Betting Prediction & Final Thoughts
Golden State is coming off a back-to-back, while New York is more rested
The Knicks are playing strong team basketball, winning close games late
The Warriors have played a heavy road schedule but have thrived with Butler in the lineup
With both teams fighting for playoff positioning, expect a hard-fought, defensive battle. The Knicks have been better at covering spreads at home, while Golden State has shown resilience on the road. However, New York’s defensive depth and home-court advantage should be the difference in this one.
Final Pick: Knicks -5
Projected Score: Knicks 112, Warriors 105
Lean Under (229.5) – Both teams have trended toward the under in recent games
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
