NY Knicks (27-16) at Brooklyn (14-29)
- When: Jan 21 2025, 7:30 PM
- Where: Barclays Center, Brooklyn, NY, USA
- TV: TNT
Game Preview
The New York Knicks head to Brooklyn on Tuesday night as 11-point favorites with a total set at 218.5, aiming to extend their dominance over the Nets and secure a much-needed win. For bettors, this matchup presents an intriguing opportunity to capitalize on recent form and roster changes.
Knicks Seek to Continue Domination
The Knicks have owned this rivalry, winning eight straight against the Nets, including two meetings earlier this season. Mikal Bridges, who was traded to New York in a blockbuster deal, has played a significant role in those wins, scoring 22 and 21 points in the November matchups.
New York, despite recent inconsistencies (4-6 in their last 10 games), comes off a solid 119-110 victory over Atlanta on Monday. Jalen Brunson dropped 34 points, while Bridges added 26 in a game where the Knicks’ defense stifled Trae Young late.
Nets Struggling to Rebuild
Brooklyn is still reeling from its post-superstar era and is 1-8 since Cam Thomas re-injured his hamstring on Jan. 2. The Nets are 5-19 since late November and currently endure a seven-game home losing streak. While Brooklyn has shown occasional flashes, their depleted roster makes it challenging to keep pace with stronger teams like the Knicks.
Key injuries further complicate matters for the Nets. Cam Thomas, who scored 43 points in their first meeting with the Knicks, will miss his 10th straight game. Brooklyn is coming off a rough 127-101 loss to Oklahoma City and now faces a daunting stretch of games at home.
Betting Breakdown
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Spread Pick: Knicks -11
The Knicks have dominated this rivalry and come in with the firepower to exploit Brooklyn’s weakened roster. With Bridges and Brunson in form and Brooklyn struggling defensively, New York covering the double-digit spread seems likely. -
Total Pick: Under 218.5
Both teams have shown inconsistent offensive outputs recently, and the Nets’ depleted lineup may struggle to contribute significantly to the total. The under is appealing given Brooklyn’s scoring woes and New York’s defensive edge. -
Prop Bet to Watch: Jalen Brunson Over 25.5 Points
Brunson has been the offensive leader for New York and is coming off a 34-point performance. Against a struggling Nets defense, he’s poised for another strong showing.
Prediction:
Knicks 115, Nets 100
Expect the Knicks to continue their dominance over the Nets with a convincing win, covering the spread and keeping the total under 218.5. New York’s balanced offense and superior roster depth should be too much for a Brooklyn team in transition.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
