The New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers play today in the first day of the Emirates NBA Cup 2024. 

Both teams are in group A, and this is expected to be a close game. The Knicks currently enjoy a three-point spread and the total is set at 212.5 points.

 

 

 

New York Knicks: It’s Still Rock & Roll To Me

The New York Knicks are trying to find their footing this season. They are not winning at the level many anticipated but the season is only in its fourth week. The Knicks starting lineup is playing well, but they need more offensive production.

Although 4-5 on the season, the Knicks are 0-0 in the NBA Cup. They should win this game but this is a challenging match to predict due to their opponent. They have played good defense and even though the players change on Tom Thibodeau’s teams, it’s still rock and roll to me.

 

 

 

Philadelphia 76ers: I Can’t Go For That

The Philadelphia 76ers may have gotten the memo a little late, but the season begins in October, not November. A win in their most recent game allowed them to climb out of last place in the Eastern Conference. 

Joel Embiid is set to make his first appearance of the season, and then will likely sit out the 76ers game tomorrow. The Olympic gold medalist stated no back-to-back games for him this year, and just like the Philadelphia dynamic duo Hall & Oates, I can’t go for that.

 

 

 

New York Knicks Starting Lineup

Philadelphia 76ers Starting Lineup

 

 

 

Knicks vs. 76ers Predictions & Picks Today: Tuesday, 11/12

This game is going to be difficult to predict, and to make picks in. Not one betting analyst, NBA media personal, or opposing coach has any 2024-25 data on Joel Embiid. That is a fact, and it’s a big factor in betting this game.

We have yet to see how many minutes he will play with his injuries. It is yet to see what kind of basketball shape he is in. There are not any indications on how he will play with his new teammates, and a list of other concerns. 

For that reason, we look at another Philadelphia 76ers player with some data available. 

 

 

 

Paul George U18.5 Points (-120 on DraftKings Sportsbook)

Paul George has not scored over 18.5 points since becoming a Philadelphia 76er. Granted that is only four games but he has played several minutes and still not scored 19 points. Perhaps his role in the NBA is changing, or perhaps he is working his way back from an injury.

Either way the arrival of Joel Embiid is not expected to help his point production. Embiid needs the ball in his hands to operate and be the scorer he is. This should cut into George’s time with the ball and ultimately mess up his rhythm.

George needs the ball in his hands often as well, and this is going to be a clash of a needy front court. Put a unit on George to not score 19 or more points tonight. 

 

 

 

Bet Smart, Be Lucky -Iggy-