Celtics vs. Knicks Pick
Can the New York Knicks put on a good show for their home fans on Christmas Day when they host the Boston Celtics at Noon ET?
According to oddsmakers at Bovada.lv, the Celtics are favored on the road as they are getting odds of -2 points against the Knicks. The over/under total for the contest is listed at 212.5 points. Boston has won three straight over New York, including a 115-87 win at home back on Nov. 11. The Celtics have covered in two of the three wins.
Discover an Easy Way to Make Big $$$$! Get 20% off. Call now! 1-866-491-0259
Boston is coming off a 117-112 loss to Oklahoma City at home on Friday night, snapping a four-game win streak. The Celtics are now 17-13 on the season and 16-13-1 against the spread. They have actually been better on the road (11-7), than they have been at home (6-6). Boston is averaging 104.7 points per game on offense this season, but they have scored at least 109 in their last three games. Isaiah Thomas is putting up 27points and 6.3 assists per game to lead the Celtics while Avery Bradley is adding 17.8 points and 7.3 rebounds per game.
The Knicks have won their last two games, both at home, beating the Pacers and Magic, to move to 16-13 overall and 18-11 against the spread. New York has covered in three of its last four overall. The Knicks have struggled defensively this year, giving up 107.6 points per game. But, the offense has managed to stay competitive by posting 105.3 points per contest. Carmelo Anthony is putting up 22.5 points and 6.0 rebounds per game to lead the team while Kristaps Porzingis is averaging 19.9 points and 7.6 rebounds per contest. Porzingis is dealing with knee contusion, but is expected to go today.
NBA Quick Links: Free Matchup Reports | Injuries | Odds Comparison | Scoreboard | Betting Trends
The Knicks have been very good in the Garden, going 11-4 against the spread this year. While Boston has been good on the road, this game means a little more with the national spotlight on MSG. The Knicks can show the world that they can compete in the East and I expect them to play with a lot of energy at home and get a win.
NBA DAILY PREDICTION: NEW YORK KNICKS +2