The New York Knicks (33-20) play on the road against an underrated Houston Rockets (23-29) team. Although the record indicates that this shouldn’t be close, Vegas disagrees. The traveling side is favored, but only by three. Additionally, the home team has plenty of talent, while also producing one of the better defensive teams in the NBA.
There are some new pieces involved in this fixture, as well as injury concerns. However, a win for either team would be a good start to their week. Especially as we are heading into the All-Star break. What do you need to know before taking action on this game? Especially as the market continues to swing in favor of the New York side.
New York Knicks vs Houston Rockets Betting Odds and Details
| Team | Spread | Total | MoneyLine |
| New York Knicks | -3 -108 |
O 221.5 -110 |
-142 |
| Houston Rockets | +3 -112 |
U 221.5 -110 |
+120 |
| ** Odds Courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook** | |||
Fixture: New York Knicks @ Houston Rockets
Date And Time: February 12, 2024 @ 8:00 p.m. EST
Location: Toyota Center in Houston, Texas
Key Stats
New York Knicks (Averages)
Points: 115.0
Points Allowed: 109.9
Field Goal Efficiency: 41.8/89.2 for 46.8%
Three-Pont Efficiency: 13.0/35.3 for 36.9%
Free Throw Efficiency: 18.4/23.3 for 78.9%
Rebounds: 12.5 Offensive, 33.4 Defensive, 46.0 Combined
Assists: 23.9
Steals: 7.4
Blocks: 3.9
Turnovers: 12.3
Field Goal Efficiency Against: 40.8/86.8 for 47.1%
Three-Point Efficiency Against: 12.9/35.0 for 36.8%
Free Throw Efficiency Against: 15.3/20.1 for 76.0%
Rebounds Against: 9.9 Offensive, 30.5 Defensive, 40.5 Combined
This New York Knicks team facing the Houston Rockets may not be what they need right now. Because the spread is so close, a lot are expecting a close game. However, with Jalen Brunson and Donte DiVincenzo playing at a high level, the visiting team will be competitive in every game. The issue is in the front court. Especially with Isaiah Hartenstein and Jericho Sims listed as game-time decisions, they will be counting on others to step up today.
Despite size concerns, this team can score with anyone. Additionally, Brunson is one of the best at getting good looks for himself and those around him. But the length and athleticism could prove to be a challenge. When fully healthy, you’d like the New York Knicks to take care of business against the Houston Rockets. But for today’s matchup things could get interesting!
Houston Rockets (Averages)
Points: 113.5
Points Allowed: 112.8
Field Goal Efficiency: 41.7/90.0 for 46.3%
Three-Pont Efficiency: 12.1/34.3 for 35.2%
Free Throw Efficiency: 18.1/23.3 for 77.7%
Rebounds: 10.8 Offensive, 34.8 Defensive, 45.6 Combined
Assists: 25.0
Steals: 7.4
Blocks: 4.4
Turnovers: 12.5
Field Goal Efficiency Against: 40.4/87.7 for 46.0%
Three-Point Efficiency Against: 12.4/35.8 for 34.6%
Free Throw Efficiency Against: 19.7/26.7 for 75.0%
Rebounds Against: 10.3 Offensive, 33.8 Defensive, 44.1 Combined
Houston possesses an above-average defense. However, offensively they can struggle. Moreso than the New York Knicks, they can struggle from beyond the arc. But if players like Jalen Green and Jabari Smith Jr. can get themselves going tonight. It will be a good game.
Additionally, they should have plenty of second-chance opportunities tonight against the New York Knicks. Particularly with some of the frontcourt matchups, you can expect to win the points in the paint battle tonight. Also, this Houston team does a nice job of getting fouled and putting the other team in foul trouble. This is ultimately the best way for them to sneak a win against a team that would normally be great favorites.
Game Prediction
While I see this game staying close, the Houston Rockets don’t have enough dynamic scoring for me to consider them to win. Although their bigs will likely have good nights, the shooting battle heavily favors New York. Although it will remain tight throughout the game, I see the Knicks pulling away at the end.
Additionally, both a strong defensive teams. Even if one or two players get it going offensively, I do not see either team contributing enough points to hit the over. Therefore I am going with the New York Knicks to cover, while also choosing the game total to be under 221.5.
Final Pick
New York Knicks -3 and Under 221.5
About the Author
Gabriel is a lifelong sports fan. Pick a sport, and he’ll enjoy talking about it with you! From football to soccer, combat sports, and volleyball! For more great content, check us out on X @TotalApexSports. Remember to subscribe to our YouTube channel, where we do several shows daily. You can follow Gabriel on Twitter @BigTenGabriel to enjoy all of his great content. Make sure you follow us on NewsBreak as well.
