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Karl-Anthony Leads Knicks vs. Thunder in New York

The fans at MSG will be treated to a game between the Thunder and the Knicks when they take their seats.

(Photo by Getty Images) Karl-Anthony Towns

Oklahoma City (30-6) at NY Knicks (25-13)

  • When: Jan 10 2025, 7:30 PM
  • Where: Madison Square Garden, New York, NY, USA
  • TV: MSG

Game Odds, Spread, Moneyline & Total

Oklahoma City Thunder @ New York Knicks
Moneyline

Oklahoma City Thunder   -180
New York Knicks   +155

Oklahoma City Thunder @ New York Knicks
Point Spread

Oklahoma City Thunder   -4.0 (-115)
New York Knicks   4.0 (-105)

Oklahoma City Thunder @ New York Knicks
Total

Over   225.0 (-110)
Under   225.0 (-110)

Key Players:
Oklahoma City: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander
NY Knicks: Karl-Anthony Towns

Team Stats

Thunder   Knicks
30-6 Record 25-13
13-4 Away & Home 12-5
9-1 Last 10 7-3
L1 Streak W1

Last Matchup:
OKC 117-107, January 3rd, 2025

Game Preview

Oklahoma City enters Friday’s matchup as a 4.0-point favorite, with the total set at 225.0, as they look to bounce back from a rare loss against a surging New York Knicks squad bolstered by Karl-Anthony Towns’ return. Both teams have championship aspirations, making this regular-season clash one to watch.

Betting Analysis

The New York Knicks are riding high after snapping a three-game losing streak with a 112-98 win over Toronto on Wednesday. Karl-Anthony Towns was pivotal in his return, posting 27 points and 13 rebounds for his 31st double-double in 35 games this season. With Towns back in the mix, the Knicks improved to 22-11 when starting their core lineup of Towns, OG Anunoby, Mikal Bridges, Jalen Brunson, and Josh Hart.

Towns, however, emphasized team success over personal accolades: “It’s not about my numbers—it’s about us getting back in the win column.” The Knicks’ victory ended a concerning skid and solidified their position in the East’s top three.

Meanwhile, the Thunder had their franchise-record 15-game winning streak snapped in a 129-122 loss to the Eastern Conference-leading Cleveland Cavaliers. Despite the defeat, Oklahoma City remains one of the most consistent teams in the league, boasting a 22-4 record since Chet Holmgren was sidelined with a pelvic injury. Holmgren has been traveling with the team and was seen in workout gear at Wednesday’s shootaround, hinting at a potential return.

Key Matchups & X-Factors

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander vs. Knicks’ Defense: SGA continues to be an offensive force, scoring 31 points in his 21st 30-point game of the season. New York will need to contain his drives and force him into tougher shots to have a chance at the upset.

Karl-Anthony Towns in the Paint: Towns’ ability to dominate inside and stretch the floor will be crucial. If he gets going early, the Thunder’s interior defense, already missing Holmgren, could be in trouble.

Rebounding Battle: The Knicks’ strong frontcourt, led by Towns, gives them a rebounding edge. If they can limit second-chance points for OKC, they’ll keep the game within reach.

Recent Trends

The Thunder’s winning streak featured 11 double-digit victories, including a 117-107 win over the Knicks earlier this month. Despite the recent loss, OKC still holds a comfortable lead in the West and will look to reinforce their dominance on the road.

The Knicks, meanwhile, have been inconsistent but showed flashes of their potential with strong defense and offensive balance in their win against Toronto. They’ll be motivated to avenge their previous loss to OKC.

Betting Predictions

Spread Pick (-4.0): Oklahoma City’s depth and Gilgeous-Alexander’s ability to close out games make them a good pick to cover the short spread, especially with the Knicks still working Towns back into their rotation.

Total Pick (225.0): Both teams have high-scoring potential, but the Thunder’s defense is capable of tightening up after allowing 129 points to Cleveland. The under is worth considering if OKC slows the pace and emphasizes defense.

Prop Bets to Watch:

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander over 29.5 points: SGA’s scoring consistency makes this an appealing option.

Karl-Anthony Towns over 11.5 rebounds: Towns dominated the boards in his return and should continue to do so against an undersized OKC frontcourt.

Jalen Brunson over 6.5 assists: Brunson has been distributing well and could take on more of a facilitator role with Towns back.

Prediction:

The Thunder’s firepower and ability to close out games should give them the edge in this matchup. Expect the Knicks to stay competitive with Towns leading the way, but OKC’s perimeter play and late-game execution will likely secure them the win and the cover.

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NBA Parlay Picks & Predictions

Final Score: Oklahoma City 115-108
The Pick: Oklahoma City -4½ & Under 225
A $100 Parlay Bet will return $34

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