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Philadelphia (14-11) at New York (19-7)
- When: Dec 19 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Madison Square Garden, New York, NY, USA
- TV: MSG
Philadelphia vs New York Preview & Prediction
Spread: New York -4.0
Moneyline: New York (-175)
Total: 229.0
New York Knicks
New York rolls into Philadelphia riding one of the most electric stretches of its season. The Knicks just stacked statement wins in Las Vegas to claim the NBA Cup, followed that up with a dramatic road win in Indiana, and continue to look like a team thriving in pressure moments. Jalen Brunson has been the heartbeat of it all, delivering clutch shots and steady leadership regardless of who is available in the lineup.
Even with several starters resting in the win over the Pacers, New York stayed composed late and executed when it mattered most. That depth matters heading into this matchup, especially with injury questions still swirling around Karl Anthony Towns. When healthy, Towns has been nearly automatic from the floor and forces defenses to stretch far beyond the paint.
From a betting perspective, New York’s recent consistency and late game execution justify their role as road favorites. Their ability to close tight games is a major edge laying four points, especially against a Philadelphia team still searching for rhythm.
Knicks Player Prop Pick: Jalen Brunson Over 27.5 Points – Brunson remains the primary closer and offensive initiator, and his usage spikes in competitive matchups like this one.
Philadelphia 76ers
Philadelphia enters this matchup far more rested but still working through identity questions. The Sixers dropped their last outing to Atlanta but saw encouraging signs from Paul George, who appears to be finding his scoring rhythm after an uneven start to the season. His perimeter shooting surge adds a much needed layer to a half court offense that has stalled at times.
Joel Embiid finally logged his first double double of the season, though efficiency remains a concern. Illness and limited reps have kept him from fully settling in, and facing a Knicks defense that has been sharp on rotations will not make life easier. Tyrese Maxey’s return helps stabilize the offense, but Philadelphia still needs to prove it can string together stops late.
The Sixers have not beaten New York since early last season, and that mental hurdle matters. Playing at home helps, but execution has been inconsistent against top tier opponents.
76ers Player Prop Pick: Paul George Over 3.5 Three Pointers Made – George’s confidence from deep is rising, and Philadelphia will need his spacing to keep pace offensively.
Betting Prediction
This matchup projects as competitive but New York’s momentum, chemistry, and late game reliability give them the edge. Philadelphia may keep it close early, but the Knicks’ ability to finish should show again.
Final Score: Knicks 119, 76ers 113
Lean: New York -4.0
Total: Over 229.0
- NBA Basketball Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
- Get real-time live scores & latest betting odds here!
