Knicks vs Lakers Thursday Prediction | NBA Picks Today, Best Bets
John Canady
Host · Writer
On Thursday night, the New York Knicks head out West for a battle with the Los Angeles Lakers. New York looks to bounce back after falling to the Golden State Warriors on their home court Tuesday night. Meanwhile, the Lakers continue to look like a true threat to make a run when the postseason begins as they look to earn their eighth straight win. With both teams likely to put forth their best effort, expect a dogfight between two teams looking to make a statement.
Knicks vs Lakers
- Location: crypto.com Arena – Los Angeles, California
- Where to Watch: TNT/Max
- Time: 10:00 p.m. ET
- Spread: Lakers -3 | Total: 230.5
- Moneyline: Lakers -152 | Knicks +128
Please be aware that betting odds may change after the publication of this article.
Knicks vs Lakers Best Bet: Knicks ML +132
Considering their 12-15 record against teams over .500, the Knicks enter this matchup as the underdog, and it’s easy to see why. However, there’s no doubt that the team’s aware of this record and the growing pessimism about their chance to compete with the top teams in the league. While they may have a tough time slowing down the Lakers’ offense, it’s fair to assume Los Angeles will have just as difficult of a time slowing down the Knicks on offense. Eventually, New York has to figure out how to beat true title contenders. I’ll take the odds that they figure it out tonight.
Knicks vs Lakers Best Total Bet: Over 230.5
Both squads have the firepower to score at a high rate, and considering how each team has played as of late, especially the Lakers, the 230.5-point total is more than feasible. The Knicks rank in the top five in points per game on the season, averaging 117.4, and the Lakers trail just behind, averaging 113.1 points per matchup. The majority of that average came before the Luka Doncic trade. That said, a final score of 125-119 seems like a realistic outcome.
Knicks Best Player Bet: Jalen Brunson 3+ Threes
Jalen Brunson heads into this game knowing he’ll have to be at his best to steal a win on the road. The Villanova product has continuously risen to the occasion in big games, and I like the odds he does it again tonight. Brunson is a nightmare to defend due to his ability to get to his spots in the paint and stretch the floor efficiently. With 3+ threes in three of his last five games, there’s a solid chance that the star guard has a big-time game against his former teammate in Doncic.
Lakers Best Player Bet: Luka Doncic 30+ Points
Luka Doncic has seemingly gotten more comfortable in the Lakers system as JJ Redick continues to prioritize putting the ball in the superstar’s hands. The playmaker has shown why Rob Pelinka jumped at the opportunity to land him ahead of the deadline, especially as of late. With 30+ points in two of his last three games, Doncic will continue to play with confidence which should lead to another big game from the Slovenian star.
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