The New York Knicks are back home at Madison Square Garden a few days before Thanksgiving to take on the Los Angeles Lakers in a marquee matchup.
Both of these big-market teams have struggled to find their footing this season. The Knicks sit at 9-8 and the Lakers at 9-9. Both teams have been looking for that “get right” game.
The biggest storyline heading into this game is undoubtedly the suspension of Lakers’ star LeBron James.
James got into a major dustup in the team’s last game with the Detroit Pistons where he threw a questionable elbow as he and Isaiah Stewart battled for a rebound. The scuffle led to a dramatic scene with Stewart charging at James with blood dripping down his face as teammates held him back.
LeBron James’ suspension has certainly impacted the betting lines heading into the game.
New York Knicks vs. Los Angeles Lakers betting odds
According to Wynnbet, the New York Knicks enter this game as 5.5 point home favorites. The Lakers are 5 point road underdogs with the over/under for the game set at 214.
The Knicks Moneyline odds are set at -200 and the Lakers are set at +175.
The Knicks over/under for points scored is at 109.5 and the Lakers at 103.5.
LeBron James’ injury clearly had a major impact on the lines for this game, as the Lakers may have even been favored coming into this game had he not been suspended.
New York Knicks vs. Los Angeles Lakers prediction
While LeBron’s injury will have the biggest impact he isn’t the only player out for this game.
For New York, they will be without their starting center Mitchell Robinson due to a concussion. Taj Gibson is also doubtful with a groin injury, leaving New York’s frontcourt thin.
Arguably the most impactful of New York’s injuries is Derrick Rose, who is listed as questionable with a sore ankle.
Given the injuries this game, I expect this one to be sloppy.
Although both teams will be playing with a sense of urgency, the injuries may impact how the offenses are run. Especially if Derrick Rose can’t suit up for New York.
The only “over” in this game I would be smashing is Anthony Davis points and rebounds.
Although both of these teams have been shaky on defense, they’ve been inconsistent on offense as well.
I’ll take the Knicks Moneyline at home in this one but would stay away from the 5.5 point spread.