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Author: Luke Hovhanesian
Feb 26, 2025 04:00 PM
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The New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers go head-to-head in an Eastern Conference showdown at Madison Square Garden. With the Knicks fighting for playoff positioning and the 76ers struggling through injuries and poor form, this game has the makings of a one-sided affair.
Current Form & Standings
New York Knicks (37-20, 3rd in East)
- Despite dropping a few close games against elite opponents, the Knicks remain one of the toughest teams in the East.
- Jalen Brunson continues to lead the charge, while Karl-Anthony Towns dominates inside.
- The Knicks have covered the spread in four of their last five home games.
Philadelphia 76ers (20-37, 12th in East)
- The Sixers are in freefall, currently riding an eight-game losing streak.
- Without Joel Embiid, their defense has collapsed, allowing an average of 125+ points per game in their last five outings.
- Philadelphia has failed to cover the spread in six straight games.
Key Player Matchups
- Jalen Brunson vs. Tyrese Maxey – Brunson’s elite shot-making and playmaking give him a clear edge over Maxey, who is forced to carry the Sixers' offense alone.
- Karl-Anthony Towns vs. Tobias Harris – With Embiid out, Towns is in a dream matchup against an undersized Sixers frontcourt. Expect a double-double with ease.
Betting Insights
Prediction: Knicks -9.5 (LOCK IT IN ??)
- The Knicks are superior in every category and should dominate from start to finish.
- The Sixers’ defense is nonexistent, and their offense lacks firepower outside of Maxey.
- The Knicks at home are a different beast, and their size and depth will overwhelm Philly.
Over/Under Pick: UNDER 232.5
- The Sixers struggle to score without Embiid, and the Knicks play a slower, controlled style.
- Expect a big lead for New York, leading to a low-scoring fourth quarter.
