Monday night's game pits the Brooklyn Nets (33-23) against the New York Knicks (31-27) in an Eastern Conference clash. Three of New York's previous four victories have come against Utah, including on February 11 when the Knicks defeated the Jazz 126-120. On the other hand, Brooklyn has dropped three of its previous four games, including a 101-98 loss to the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday. For the Knicks, centre Mitchell Robinson (thumb) is out, while for the Nets, shooting guard Seth Curry (thigh) is also out. In Manhattan, New York, at Madison Square Garden, the game is set to begin at 7:30 p.m. ET. New York is now the 2.5-point favourite in the Nets vs. Knicks odds at Sportsbook. The total point over/under is set at 220. Check out SportsLine's reliable computer model's NBA predictions and betting tips before making any Knicks vs. Nets predictions.
Nets vs. Knicks NBA odds and betting lines:
Why the Knicks can cover
For New York, Julius Randle is a dynamic option on the court. Randle is tenacious while attempting to score or grab rebounds in the paint. Along with 24.9 points per game, the two-time All-Star is ninth in the NBA in rebounds (10.8). He also has the third-most double-doubles in the NBA (36). Randle scored 30 points and pulled down 10 rebounds on February 10.Guard Jalen Brunson excels as a facilitator and three-point shooter. Brunson has the ability to get into the lane and either score or pass the ball to a teammate. On 4.5 attempts, the Villanova product shoots 40% from downtown. He scores 23.6 points, pulls down 3.6 rebounds, and assists 6.2 times a game. Four times, Brunson has recorded 30 or more points.
Why the Nets can cover
Spencer Dinwiddie, a guard, is back in Brooklyn for his second spell with the company. Dinwiddie possesses the ball-handling abilities and talents necessary to be successful on offence. The Colorado product averages 17.7 points and 5.3 assists per game and has a wide range of scoring options. On February 9, he played in his first game since joining Brooklyn, compiling 25 points, six assists, and four steals.Another floor-spacing scorer who consistently makes shots off ball screens and pull-up jumpers is Cameron Johnson. The Pennsylvanian's ability to force turnovers and frequently enter transition is impressive. Johnson scores 13.8 points per game while pulling down 4 rebounds. In his final game, he recorded 12 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 steals.
Making draught choices for the Nets vs. Knicks
The teams are expected to score a total of 229 points, according to SportsLine's model. A side hits 60% of the time, according to the model. Only at SportsLine can you purchase the model's selection.