There’s only one game on tonight’s NBA slate. As the NBA prepares for the NBA Cup quarterfinal, the Knicks and Raptors will play the lone matchup tonight. But at least it’s something.
I’ve asked the AI Model for its thoughts and predictions for tonight’s game. Here’s what you should consider before heading to the top-rated sportsbooks.
Picks Summary
- Raptors +6 (-110) at Caesars Sportsbook (check our Caesars Sportsbook Review)
- Under 231.5 (-110) at Bet365 (check our Bet365 Review)
New York Knicks vs. Toronto Raptors
Monday, December 09, 2024 – 07:30 PM ET at Scotiabank Arena
The AI Model believes the Raptors will cover a six-point spread on Caesars Sportsbook with a three-point loss, 114-111. In addition, the model thinks the Knicks and Raptors will score 225 points. However, the total for tonight’s game at Bet365 is 231.5. The Under is the play.
Toronto’s Sneaky Defense
While the Toronto Raptors have allowed 116.3 points per 100 possessions, they’ve at least held teams to a 53.6% effective field goal percentage. That ranks 9th in the NBA. Ultimately, the Raptors won’t force many turnovers against the Knicks. After all, the Knicks have turned the ball over just 12.5% of the time, while the Raptors have earned just 13.5% of turnovers.
Still, the Knicks probably won’t see the foul line as much as other teams do when playing the Raptors. The Knicks also aren’t spectacular on the offensive glass.
So, if Toronto can force difficult shots against the Knicks, they’ll hang around and keep them scoreless on many possessions. The Knicks get their points on quality shots. But that just might not be as easy in this game, especially on the road.
Can Toronto Win The Glass?
The New York Knicks have allowed 115.3 points per 100 possessions. Their defense isn’t elite like it was last year. Part of that is due to Isaiah Hartenstein’s departure. Additionally, Mitchell Robinson is still injured and out. The Knicks have given up a 55.6% effective field goal percentage and also don’t grab many turnovers on defense. The only areas the Knicks have been good at are on the defensive glass and limiting free throws.
That said, the Raptors have earned 33.4% of offensive rebounds. The Knicks might keep the Raptors from adding that high of a rate. Yet, it’s still likely the Raptors add more offensive rebounds and second chances against the Knicks.
The main factor for the Raptors is just limiting turnovers. If Toronto keeps turnovers below 14%, they’ll be in great shape at home. That’s possible, especially since the Knicks have forced just 13.6% of turnovers per game this season.
The Pick
This will be the first of four games between the Knicks and Raptors. These matchups are always intriguing, especially after last year’s trade that sent RJ Barrett and Immanuel Quickley to Toronto for OG Anunoby.
Right now, Quickley is out and dealing with an injury. He’s been off the court for most of the season this year. On the other hand, Anunoby missed a lot of last season but has played very well this year. Previous Achiwua was also sent from Toronto to New York in that deal. He just made his season debut last week and is finally healthy. He’ll help the Knicks’ depth in the front court.
When it comes to this game, if the Raptors are able to limit the Knicks from the field and clean up the glass well, they’ll stick around and potentially win this game outright. After all, the Knicks have the NBA Cup Quarterfinals on Wednesday and could be looking ahead to that game.
In addition, the Raptors will just need to limit turnovers more on offense. They’ll get second chances more often but still won’t get to the foul line much. Therefore, consider taking the Raptors against the spread and grab the under in this game.
The AI Model’s predictions have been fire all season long. Don’t miss this pick!
NBA Pick: Raptors +6 (-110) at Caesars Sportsbook
NBA Pick: Under 231.5 (-110) at Bet365
*21+ Seek help with a gambling addiction at 1-800-Gambler
*The line and/or odds referenced in this article might have changed since the content was published. For the latest information on line movements, visit OddsTrader’s free betting odds tool.
