The New York Knicks (24-44) will attempt to put an end to their eight-game losing streak when they clash with the Philadelphia 76ers (36-30) at Madison Square Garden. The game will air on MSG Network at 7:30 p.m. ET on Thursday, March 15, 2018.
Philadelphia is a 9-point favorite on the opening line, while the Over/Under (O/U) for the game opened at 217 points.
Philadelphia 76ers at New York Knicks Free Prediction
The last time the 76ers played, they were beaten by the Indiana Pacers, 101-98. Indiana’s 7.8 turnover percentage was their largest strength over Philadelphia, who had a mark of 19.9. The Pacers’ mark was better than their season average of 12.2, while the 76ers’ was above their season average of 14.7. Joel Embiid was the top scorer from either team with 29 points on 11-for-22 shooting.
The Knicks were beaten by the Dallas Mavericks in their last outing, 110-97. One of Dallas’ largest advantages was their ability to convert at the free throw line. They were 16-18 (88.9 percent), while the Knicks were 9-12 (75.0 percent). With 21 points on 10-for-13 shooting, Michael Beasley led New York in scoring.
The inefficient offense of New York will square off against the stingy defense of Philadelphia. The Knicks currently rank 25th in offensive efficiency, while the 76ers are fifth in defensive efficiency. The 76ers should have the edge on that end of the court.
Philadelphia holds records of 36-30 straight up (SU) and 37-29 against the spread (ATS). Just over half of the 76ers’ games have finished under the projected point total.
Meanwhile, New York is 24-44 SU and 30-38 ATS. In opposition of Philadelphia, a little over half of Knicks games have finished over the O/U total.
The 76ers have emerged victorious in both matchups against the Knicks this year, including a 108-92 victory the last time these teams met. Philadelphia covered as a 12-point favorite and the game finished with a total of 200 points, which was 10 points below the projected point total of 210 points. The 76ers had a much better effective field goal percentage (0.613 vs. 0.430) and had a better offensive rebounding percentage (21.2 vs. 18.9). Enes Kanter recorded a double-double in the loss, with 17 points and 13 rebounds.
Philadelphia 76ers at New York Knicks Pick
Free NBA Tip: SU Winner – 76ers, ATS Winner – 76ers, O/U – Under
Notes
Betting Notes:
On the road, Philadelphia is 17-19 ATS with 19 overs and 17 unders.
At home, New York is 16-16 ATS with 16 overs and 16 unders.
In games where they allow under 100 points, New York is 11-3 and Philadelphia is 16-0.
The Knicks are 23-23 when they reach 100 points, while the 76ers are 33-18.
Philadelphia ranks ninth in steals per game (8.1) while New York ranks 29th (6.8).
The Knicks average 5.3 blocks per game, which ranks sixth in the league. The 76ers rank 24th in blocks allowed per game (5.2).
Philadelphia averages 25.9 assists per game, which ranks third in the league. New York ranks 19th in assists allowed per game (23.8).
The 76ers rank 15th in three pointers attempted per game (29.0) while the Knicks rank 29th (22.4).
Philadelphia ranks fifth in second chance points per game (13.6) while New York ranks 19th in second chance points allowed per game (12.8).
The 76ers rank first in rebounds per game (46.6) while the Knicks rank 13th (43.9).
Philadelphia ranks 19th in fast break points per game (10.3) while New York ranks 29th (8.0).
The Knicks rank 21st in points off turnovers allowed per game (17.7) while the 76ers rank 29th (19.5).
Philadelphia ranks second in points allowed in the paint per game (41.5) while New York ranks sixth (42.7).
Bettings Trends:
In their last five games, Philadelphia is 2-3 ATS with 3 unders and 2 overs.
New York is 1-4 ATS with 3 unders and 2 overs over their last five games.
The 76ers’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 3.4, up from 2.2 for the season.
During their last five games, the Knicks have scored an average of 100.2 points per game (3.7 below their season average) and allowed an average of 115.0 points per game (7.3 above their season average).
—–
