Two sports teams that represent the two most iconic cities of the country square off on ABC, in a marquee weekend match. The NBA did not waste the opportunity in the first weekend without the NFL since August. They are displaying the red hot New York Knicks, and the iconic Los Angeles Lakers.

 

 

 

Los Angeles Lakers: Maybe So, Maybe No

The Los Angeles Lakers are always the center focus of criticism, and one the national media’s favorite teams to discuss. Although it was all doom and gloom earlier this season, Head Coach JJ Reddick has the Lakers in fifth place of the Western Conference with a 27-19 record.

The Lakers are 11-15 on the road, and this is a tough test playing against two starting All-Star members. As of now they have three players listed as day to day and Anthony Davis is still out with an injury. The Lakers are well rested, but can they win? Maybe So, Maybe No the Knicks could be too much for the Lakers at Madison Square Garden.
 

New York Knicks: Empire State of Mind

The New York Knicks have an Empire State of Mind, that is to say they have championship aspirations. The Knicks are third in the Eastern Conference, have a 32-16 record, and are on a five game winning streak. The starting five play well together, and play tough, fast basketball.

The Knicks like to physically wear down their opponents, but the Lakers have a lot of size on their team. It will be interesting to see if they play physical with them or just make the game an up and down high pace match.

 

 

 

Los Angeles Lakers Starting Lineup

New York Knicks Starting Lineup

 

 

 

Lakers vs. Knicks Predictions & Picks Today: Saturday 2/1

The Knicks are 10.5 favorites, and have a -500 moneyline on Bet365, it does not look good for the Lakers. However, it is difficult to imagine Lebron James not giving max effort in New York, and giving the Lakers their best chance to win. 

The Lakers should cover the spread, but the New York Knicks should win the match. Not having Anthony Davis is a big blow, but the Lakers are built on three stars. The smart bet is on one of those players.

 

 

 

Lakers vs. Knicks Prediction: Austin Reaves Over 20.5 Points  (-115 on DraftKings Sportsbook)

Austin Reaves has proven himself to be a great basketball player, and one the Lakers have become dependent on for success. His size gives him an advantage over most backcourts, and he can contribute with great passing and scoring.

He hasn’t scored 21 points in his last four games, and just once in his last eight matches. However, the expectation is for him to score over his season average of 18.2 points against the Knicks. Jalen Brunson is a great point guard, a starter for the Eastern Conference All-Star team. However, he is not a great defender, and is severely undersized against Reaves.

If the New York Knicks are going to win by ten or more points, the Lakers will need to actively look to score often. Reaves is one of two starters not listed as day-to-day or out. He will have to be a scoring threat, and the focal point of the offense for them to have a chance to win this match. 

Put a unit on him to score 21 or more points this evening.