San Antonio Spurs (3-4) vs. New York Knicks (3-4)
San Antonio Spurs vs. New York Knicks 11/08/23 – The San Antonio Spurs (3-4) are set to clash with the New York Knicks (3-4) in a matchup that finds both teams looking to tip their early-season scales in a positive direction. As the calendar turns to Wednesday, they will face off at the iconic Madison Square Garden, with fans eagerly anticipating the action to unfold. Those in search of free NBA selections should mark their calendars for what promises to be an intriguing contest.
The Spurs, with an even split on their record, exhibit a potent offensive squad averaging 114.6 points per game, ranking them among the higher echelons in the league. Their offensive prowess is complemented by their 47.2% field goal efficiency and a 35.1% conversion rate from the three-point line. However, the team’s defensive gaps are notable, particularly in their allowance of points against. While they excel in rebounding and shot-blocking, averaging 40.7 rebounds and 5.9 blocks per game, the Spurs’ high turnover rate of 15.6 per game remains a worrying trend that could be exploited by a disciplined Knicks defense.
Turning to the New York Knicks, their scoring average of 104.4 points per game may not dazzle when compared to the Spurs, but their strength lies in their defensive strategies and rebounding, pulling down an impressive 50.4 rebounds per game. The Knicks’ lower field goal percentage (40.8%) and three-point percentage (33.2%) might signal a need for improvement in shot selection and execution.
San Antonio Spurs vs. New York Knicks 11/08/23 Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, November 8, 2023 at 7:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Madison Square Garden |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Victor Wembanyama (C) vs. Jalen Brunson (PG)
Victor Wembanyama of the Spurs has made waves in the league with his towering presence and versatile play. Over 7 games he averages 19.4 points and 8.4 rebounds on average per game, showing his impactful play both offensively and defensively. Defensive statistics particularly impressive include his 2.6 blocks per game that serve as an effective rim protector role; yet his high turnover rate of 3.6 per game with low assist to turnover ratio (0.5) points out potential areas for improvement when it comes to game management.
Jalen Brunson of the Knicks has been nothing short of an exceptional floor general, averaging 22.1 points and 4.6 assists per game in 35 minutes, along with an assist-to-turnover ratio of 1.7 that speaks volumes about his efficient playmaking. Although Wembanyama provides more defensive presence, Brunson will prove invaluable as their floor general in tight games due to his consistency and decision-making under pressure.
When these key players clash on the court, it’s a battle of inside versus outside, of staunch defense against shrewd playmaking. Wembanyama’s interior defense will be put to the test against Brunson’s drives and mid-range game, while Brunson will need to navigate the imposing shot-blocking presence that Wembanyama brings.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: New York Knicks -400, Total Odds: 224.5
The current betting odds paint the Knicks as the favorites with a -9 point spread, a reflection of their strong defensive capabilities and home-court advantage at Madison Square Garden. The total odds are set at 224.5, with both teams having shown a tendency to engage in high-scoring games, although the Knicks have recently trended towards lower-scoring outcomes.
San Antonio Spurs Betting Trends
The Spurs are 6-12 against the spread (ATS) in their last 18 games, indicating challenges they face in covering the spread. However, their performance ATS in recent games against New York—5-2 in their last 7—suggests a knack for stepping up against this particular opponent. The total has gone OVER in 9 of San Antonio’s last 10 games, which might influence bettors to lean towards expecting a high-scoring affair.
New York Knicks Betting Trends
The Knicks show a more favorable 6-2-1 ATS in their last 9 games, signifying their ability to exceed betting expectations. Coupled with the total going UNDER in 5 of their last 5 games, it points towards a strong defensive showing. Their 4-1 straight-up (SU) record in their last 5 home games against the Spurs further solidifies their position as favorites in this matchup.
San Antonio Spurs vs. New York Knicks 11/08/23 Betting Picks
Considering the statistical analysis and betting trends, the Knicks, with their formidable home record and defensive solidity, appear positioned to control the pace of the game and potentially cover the spread. The Spurs’ offensive threat, led by Wembanyama, could keep the game within reach, but their defensive inconsistencies are likely to be a key factor. For top premium weekly picks, looking towards the total points might offer value, with the Spurs’ OVER trend clashing with the Knicks’ UNDER pattern at home.
Free Pick and Prediction: New York Knicks 112, San Antonio Spurs 105