New York Knicks vs Los Angeles Lakers Prediction & Betting Tips - NBA

Prediction published on 03/02/2024, 06:40  by Devesh Jaganath | Modified on 03/02/2024 at 12:30 in NBA Prediction

The New York Knicks play host to the Los Angeles Lakers at Madison Square Garden in the NBA on Saturday night. The hosts are 32-17 and third in the Eastern Conference, while the visitors are 25-25 and ninth in the Western Conference. 

The Los Angeles Lakers have been enjoying a positive streak, securing victories in six of their last 10 games overall. Their recent triumph includes a 114-105 road win against the Celtics on Thursday, where Austin Reaves stood out with an impressive performance, leading the team with 32 points on 10 of 18 shooting. Jaxson Hayes and D’Angelo Russell also made significant contributions, each scoring 16 points. Currently, the Lakers hold the 14th position in scoring in the NBA, averaging 116.1 points per game. In contrast, the New York squad ranks second defensively, allowing only 109.2 points per game. Defensively, the Lakers have faced challenges this season, conceding an average of 117.3 points per game and permitting the most three-pointers, with an average of 14.4 per game. The availability of LeBron James (ankle), Anthony Davis (hip), and Jarred Vanderbilt (foot) are questionable for the upcoming game.

Meanwhile, the New York Knicks are currently on an impressive winning streak, securing victories in 15 of their last 17 games overall. With their eyes set on a 10th consecutive win, they recently edged past the Pacers in a close 109-105 victory on Thursday. Jalen Brunson played a key role, leading the team with 40 points on 15 of 30 shooting, and Donte DiVincenzo added 20 points. The Knicks stand as the league's 15th-ranked scoring team, averaging 115.2 points per game. New York's success has been attributed to their strong defense, ranking second in points allowed per game with an average of 109.2. However, the availability of key players like O.G. Anunoby (elbow), Quentin Grimes (knee), and Evan Fournier (personal) are questionable for the upcoming game.