New Orleans Pelicans vs New York Knicks Prediction - NBA Picks

The NBA’s New Orleans Pelicans are set to host the New York Knicks in a highly anticipated matchup on December 22, 2024, at 8:00 PM EST, broadcast on NBA TV. With the Pelicans struggling significantly this season and the Knicks looking to solidify their playoff positioning, this game offers intriguing betting opportunities. The Knicks are favoured by 6.5 points, with the total set at 223.5 points. Both teams have had a mix of results recently, with the Pelicans coming off a tough loss to the Rockets and the Knicks facing a setback against the Hawks in the NBA Cup. Key players to watch include Zion Williamson for the Pelicans and Karl-Anthony Towns for the Knicks, both of whom will play pivotal roles in this contest.

New Orleans Pelicans

Recent Performance

The New Orleans Pelicans have been languishing near the bottom of the Western Conference standings, struggling to find a rhythm both offensively and defensively. Their recent 8.5-point loss to the Houston Rockets underscores their ongoing challenges. The Pelicans’ defensive rating of 120.01 is among the worst in the league, and their offensive struggles are highlighted by their 105.36 points per game.

Head-to-Head History

Historically, the Pelicans have struggled against the Knicks, losing their last three encounters. However, they often perform better at home, which could provide a slight edge in this matchup.

Against the Spread (ATS) Records

The Pelicans are 12-18 ATS this season, reflecting their overall struggles. At home, their ATS record is slightly better at 7-8, but they have failed to cover the spread in their last three home games.

Key Metrics and Player Matchups

Statistically, the Pelicans lag behind the Knicks in almost every key metric:

• Offensive Rating: 107.94 (vs. Knicks’ 121.69)
• Defensive Rating: 120.01 (vs. Knicks’ 114.41)
• Effective Field Goal Percentage (eFG%): 50% (vs. Knicks’ 58%)

Zion Williamson will be a focal point for the Pelicans, averaging 22.67 points and 8.00 rebounds per game. His matchup against Karl-Anthony Towns will be critical. Meanwhile, Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum will need to step up their offensive production to keep pace with the Knicks’ high-scoring backcourt.

Strategic Considerations

The Pelicans could exploit their advantage in offensive rebounding (30% offensive rebounding percentage) and bench scoring (30.50 bench points per game). However, their turnover issues (14.36 turnovers per game) could be detrimental against a Knicks team that excels in ball control.

New York Knicks

Recent Performance

The New York Knicks are navigating a crucial phase in their season, aiming to secure a higher playoff seed. Despite a surprising loss to the Atlanta Hawks in the NBA Cup, they remain competitive in the regular season, highlighted by their stable performance and key contributions from stars like Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson.

Head-to-Head History

The Knicks have dominated recent matchups against the Pelicans, winning their last three games. Their defensive prowess and offensive efficiency have been too much for the Pelicans to handle.

Against the Spread (ATS) Records

The Knicks are 17-13 ATS this season and 8-7 on the road. They have covered the spread in four of their last five games, indicating a b betting trend in their favour.

Key Metrics and Player Matchups

The Knicks hold significant statistical advantages:

• Offensive Rating: 121.69 (vs. Pelicans’ 107.94)
• Defensive Rating: 114.41 (vs. Pelicans’ 120.01)
• Effective Field Goal Percentage (eFG%): 58% (vs. Pelicans’ 50%)

Karl-Anthony Towns is a dominant force, averaging 25.04 points and 14.16 rebounds per game. His matchup against Zion Williamson will be a key battle. Jalen Brunson and OG Anunoby provide additional firepower and defensive stability, making the Knicks a well-rounded team.

Strategic Considerations

The Knicks excel in shooting efficiency and turnover control, critical factors in this game. They shoot 50% from the field and 40% from three-point range, while their turnover percentage is a low 12.64%. These metrics suggest that the Knicks are well-equipped to handle the Pelicans’ defensive pressure.

Betting Pick & Prediction

Recommendation

Given the Knicks’ superior offensive and defensive metrics, along with their recent form and head-to-head dominance, betting on the Knicks to cover the -6.5 spread seems prudent. The Pelicans’ struggles on both ends of the floor, coupled with their high turnover rate, make them unlikely to keep pace with the more efficient Knicks.

Supporting Stats and Trends

• Knicks’ ATS record: 17-13 overall, 8-7 on the road
• Pelicans’ ATS record: 12-18 overall, 7-8 at home
• Offensive and Defensive Ratings: Knicks lead in both, indicating overall team strength
• Shooting Efficiency: Knicks’ eFG% of 58% vs. Pelicans’ 50%

Specific Bet

Pick: Knicks -6.5 (-110) The Knicks’ balance of scoring, efficient shooting, and defensive prowess should see them overcome the Pelicans comfortably. Given the Pelicans’ recent form and the Knicks’ ability to control games, betting on the Knicks to cover the spread offers a solid value.

Overall, the Knicks’ ability to capitalise on their strengths while exploiting the Pelicans’ weaknesses makes them the clear favourite in this matchup. Whether you’re a die-hard basketball fan or a sharp sports bettor, backing the Knicks in this game appears to be a sound strategy.