New York typically struggles with the Bucks, but it had them figured out until ultimately melting down late. The Knicks found a way to blow another fourth-quarter lead in a game they should've won.
Tonight, they will look to get back into the winning column by relying on Jalen Brunson, who has been red-hot of late.
The Indiana Pacers have played good basketball of late, and they will look at tonight as an opportunity to get another win against a Knicks team that, while playing well, isn't necessarily striking fear in opponents around the league just yet.
Find out your best options with our free NBA betting picks and predictions for the Pacers vs. Knicks on Monday, January 11.
Pacers vs Knicks best odds
Pacers vs Knicks picks and predictions
Julius Randle delivered an absolute dud of a game against the Bucks, with 25 points on 9 of 29 shooting. There was a silver lining in that game, though, and that would be Randle's continued ability to rebound the ball at an incredible rate. Against Milwaukee and Giannis, Randle fought tough, grabbing 16 rebounds.
Randle has been grabbing rebounds among the league's best, reaching double digits in his last seven games. When the Knicks are at their best, Randle is applying himself on the boards, and the Pacers will have a serious problem containing him.
The Knicks are a Top 10 team in rebound rate this season (51.7 percent). Indiana, on the other hand, is a Bottom-10 team. In the last game against Indiana this season, Randle showed dominance on the boards, grabbing 14 rebounds. He used his strength and sheer willpower to beat his opponent to the defensive boards, early and often.
Indiana doesn't have the bodies or tough rebounders on the roster to battle with Randle on the boards. Aaron Nesmith is questionable tonight with an illness, but should he play, it won't make much of a difference as he isn't physically strong enough to keep Randle off the boards. Indiana will have to play a bigger lineup tonight if it even wants to give itself a chance on the boards.
My best bet: Julius Randle Over 11.5 rebounds (-110)
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Pacers vs Knicks spread analysis
The Knicks are 5.5-point favorites, which is expected as they've been winning of late and are 3-2 ATS in their last five. Tonight's game will be an interesting test for two teams playing very good basketball of late.
The Pacers have won eight of their last 10 games and are building great chemistry along the way. What was thought to be a sure-fire top-of-the-lottery season for Indiana has now turned into one that could see it in the playoffs.
In the only matchup between these two teams earlier this season, the Knicks were -1 and won in a three-point game. Tonight will likely be another closely contested matchup, with both teams playing so well of late.
The matchup in this one is between the two starting point guards, who should be considered for all-star reserve spots. Tyrese Halliburton has been the quarterback of this Indiana offense, which is ranked 13th overall in rating (113.3). The third-year guard ranks first in assists per game (10.3) and makes his 3-pointers at an impressive 40.2 clip.
On the other end, Jalen Brunson has been everything the Knicks could've ever imagined and more. His 44-point masterclass against Jrue Holiday and the Bucks was eye-opening. Although not the most athletic, Brunson continues embarrassing opponents with incredible footwork and poise.
I'm rolling with Brunson's hot hand in this one to cover.
Pacers vs Knicks Over/Under analysis
The Over/Under for tonight is currently set at 226.5. Any Knicks game should be considered for the Under, as they bring a Top 10 defensive rating of 111.7. Randle and Brunson combine for over 45 points per game and can sometimes drive the scoreboard in a game way beyond expectations.
Brunson is bringing his best play of the season into tonight's game. He has scored no fewer than 26 points in his last three games and appears to get better every night.
Tonight has all the makings of another big night, as the Pacers lack any true defensive stoppers on the perimeter. Brunson will likely come out looking for his shot, and if he can make a few early attempts, Indiana (and the scoreboard) could be in for a long night.
I like the Over.
Pacers vs Knicks betting trend to know
The Over is 4-1 in Knicks' last 5 games following an ATS loss. Find more NBA betting trends for Pacers vs. Knicks.
Pacers vs Knicks game info
| Location: | Madison Square Garden, New York, NY |
| Date: | Wednesday, January 11, 2023 |
| Tip-off: | 7:30 p.m. ET |
| TV: | Bally Sports Indiana, MSG |
