New York (24-11) at Bulls (15-19)
- When: Jan 4 2025, 8:00 PM
- Where: United Center, Chicago, IL, USA
- TV: MSG
Game Preview
Knicks vs. Bulls Betting Preview and Prediction
Line: New York -5.5 | Total: 238.0
The New York Knicks are in a tricky spot as they hit the road to face the Chicago Bulls on Saturday night. After their nine-game winning streak was snapped by the Oklahoma City Thunder in a 117-107 loss, the Knicks will need a quick turnaround to avoid back-to-back losses. With all five starters logging 40+ minutes in Friday’s game, fatigue and bench production could play a significant role.
Knicks Seeking Bench Support
New York’s starters all hit double digits against Oklahoma City, led by Mikal Bridges with 24 points and Karl-Anthony Towns, who posted a monster double-double with 17 points and 22 rebounds. However, the bench was almost nonexistent, scoring just 5 points compared to 44 from the Thunder’s reserves.
Coach Tom Thibodeau emphasized the need for the entire team to rise to the challenge:
“Our bench is more than capable. We win together, we lose together.”
If New York can get meaningful minutes from its role players, particularly in the second half, it could make a huge difference in a back-to-back situation.
Bulls’ Struggles with Consistency
The Chicago Bulls, meanwhile, are coming off a disappointing 125-107 loss to the Washington Wizards despite a 32-point effort from Zach LaVine. Turnovers were the Bulls’ downfall, committing 20 giveaways while shooting just 29.8% from beyond the arc.
Coach Billy Donovan didn’t hold back after the game:
“We didn’t deserve to win. We didn’t play to our identity or level of focus.”
Chicago’s ability to bounce back at home will hinge on cleaning up mistakes and improving their defensive execution.
Key Players to Watch
New York Knicks: Karl-Anthony Towns has been dominant, averaging over 30 points in three of his last four games. If he stays hot, Chicago’s frontcourt will have its hands full.
Chicago Bulls: LaVine has a strong history against the Knicks, averaging 23 points in 20 career matchups. Nikola Vucevic has also been consistent, notching five double-doubles in his past 10 games against New York.
Previous Matchup Recap
These teams last met on November 13, when the Bulls edged out a dramatic 124-123 victory, thanks to Coby White’s clutch free throws with three seconds left. Towns was electric, dropping 46 points, but it wasn’t enough to secure the win.
Betting Trends and Prediction
Knicks ATS: New York is 6-4 ATS in its past 10 games and has covered the spread in four of its last six road games.
Bulls ATS: Chicago has struggled with consistency, but they’re 4-1 ATS in their last five home games against teams playing the second leg of a back-to-back.
With a sky-high total of 238.0, the oddsmakers expect a fast-paced, high-scoring affair. The Knicks’ fatigue could lead to defensive lapses, and the Bulls’ recent defensive struggles make the over a tempting play.
Prediction: The Knicks may struggle to match Chicago’s energy after their grueling game in Oklahoma City. Look for the Bulls to capitalize on home court advantage and LaVine’s offensive rhythm. Take Chicago +5.5 to cover, with a potential outright win. Final score prediction: Bulls 122, Knicks 118.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
