NBA Predictions: Will Knicks cover as home underdogs vs. Celtics? 2/24/18

Celtics vs. Knicks Pick

Are the host New York Knicks going to keep it competitive and cover the spread tonight when they battle the rival Boston Celtics at 7:30PM ET?

CURRENT ODDS

According to oddsmakers at YouWager, the Celtics are a 5-point favorite on the spread line. The total is set at 211 points.

Bet Tonight's NBA Action

LINE MOVEMENT

Boston opened as a 5-point favorite on the spread line, while the over-under has jumped from 206. While the line is at 5 almost anywhere you shop, the total can be found at 211.5 points at some books if you are looking to play the under and want the hook.

PUBLIC BETTING

As of Saturday afternoon, 81 percent of public bets have come in on the visiting Celtics. Online wager info also stats that 54 percent of bets are being placed on the over.

KEY INJURY TO WATCH

Celtics center Aaron Baynes left last night's game at Detroit with an elbow injury and did not return. He is doubtful for tonight. His absence in the interior would mean more minutes for the recently acquired Greg Monroe. As for the Knicks, rookie guard Frank Ntilikina is dealing with a knee injury but expected to play tonight.

BETTING STRATEGY

Boston is 5-2 ATS and annhilated the Knicks 103-73 at home on Jan. 31. But the last meeting in New York saw the Knicks prevail 102-93, although they had the injured Kristaps Porzingis available on that day. Although the Knicks are in full tank mode, they are clearly putting effort on the court as evidenced by the 120-113 win at Orlando last time out. Add in the fact that Boston is on a back-to-back and I'm willing to take a chance on New York as a home underdog.

MLB DAILY PREDICTION: BALTIMORE ORIOLES -120