Houston Rockets vs New York Knicks betting tips and predictions for Saturday’s NBA game. The Houston Rockets travel to Madison Square Garden in hopes of ending a 13-game losing streak as they take on the New York Knicks. Read on for all our free predictions and betting tips.
Houston Rockets
Facing the Oklahoma City Thunder was a good chance for the Rockets to end their long losing streak, but they failed to do so once again as the Thunder beat them 101-89. A total of 5 Rocket players scored in double figures, led by Jaylen Green who had 21 on the night, but as a team they shot only 35% from the field and 28% from three-point land. On top of that they were also outrebounded 56-46, with so many holes in their game it’s hard to imagine them beating anyone at this point. Houston has not responded well after losses, they’ve failed to cover the spread in their last 6 games following a loss. They’re also 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games in which they’ve failed to cover the spread.
New York Knicks
When I looked at the Knicks schedule I marked this game as a good opportunity for them to get a statement win and somewhat get back on track. That was the idea against Orlando as well on Thursday, but they lost by 6 points at home against an inferior Magic side. The Knicks got only 13 points from their best player Julius Randle, the high point man was R.J. Barrett who had 17 but on really poor efficiency. New York ranks only 18th in defense this season, a significant drop-off compared to last year and it’s costing them games. Right now they are only 8-7 in 15 games and are only 7th in the Eastern Conference playoff race. They could be shorthanded tonight as Nerlens Noel and Taj Gibson are both listed as questionable with injuries.
The Knicks are by far the better team here, but they’ve not been as convincing against the spread this season having covered only 7 times in 15 games. At home they are just 3-5 ATS and tonight they are 11 point favorites. As bad as the Rockets have been, they’ve done well against the spread in away games by covering in 4 of 9 games so far. I’m thinking they’ll at least keep this game somewhat close, so let’s back Houston to cover here.
New York Knicks – Houston Rockets Odds
New York Knicks – Houston Rockets Predictions
Rockets +11 Point Spread is available at -110 odds on bet365
Scoring issues have plagued both teams recently. The Knicks have scored 98. 92, 96, 100 and 103 points in their last 5 games, while the Rockets have averaged just 95.2 points in their last 5. Although their last 10 meetings have gone over the total 7 times, these two teams have combined to go 11/19 on the O/U so far this season. New York’s last 5 games have all gone under the total, while for Houston that has been the case in 11 of their last 16 games. Houston does play at the fastest pace in the league right now, but their offensive efficiency ranks 30th with averages of 95.8 points per 100 possessions and an effective field goal percentage of just 49.1%. New York ranks a bit higher in both of those categories, but nothing that will blow you away. I think we’re in for a low scoring affair at MSG here, so let’s back the Under.
Under 211.5 Total Points is available at -110 odds on bet365
