New York Knicks (16-12) vs. Oklahoma City Thunder (18-9)
New York Knicks vs. Oklahoma City Thunder 12/27/23 – On Wednesday night, New York Knicks and Oklahoma City Thunder are set to face-off in an NBA clash that has received significant anticipation among both top handicapping services and fans. With 16-12 standing and an 18-9 record respectively, both teams look poised for an entertaining showdown at Paycom Center at 8:00 PM ET; live broadcast is provided by BSOK.
The Knicks have had an outstanding start to this season, particularly in scoring, where they average 114.6 points per game with an impressive field goal percentage of 46.2% combined with 37.8% in three-pointers. Rebounding strength could give them an edge against Thunder in this matchup; to do this successfully they must limit turnovers (12.1 per game) and fouls (18 per game).
The Thunder are an efficient scoring team (120.7 points per game), as evidenced by their 49.2% field goal percentage and 38.3% three-point success rate. Their defense has also been strengthened through an average of 8.5 steals and 6.4 blocks per game to disrupt opponents’ offensive rhythms. Although their offensive rebound numbers (8.6 per game) fall below those of the Knicks’, overall rebounding (11.9 per game) creates an image of a well-rounded and disciplined squad.
New York Knicks vs. Oklahoma City Thunder 12/27/23 Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, December 27, 2023, at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Paycom Center |
| TV: | BSOK |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Jalen Brunson PG vs. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander PG
Jalen Brunson has taken his game to new heights in his first season with the Knicks, averaging 25.6 points per game along with 5.9 assists. His strengths lie in his shooting ability and craftiness off the dribble, though he can be undersized on defense. Brunson will look to penetrate and break down Oklahoma City’s defense.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been sensational this season, nearly averaging a career-high 31 points per contest to go along with 6.3 assists. SGA uses his length well to finish creatively at the rim but has also greatly improved his outside shooting. However, he can occasionally be turnover-prone with his high-usage style. Expect him to try to attack Brunson and get to the free throw line often.
This matchup pits two dynamic, high-scoring point guards against one another. While they have contrasting styles and strengths, Brunson and SGA should largely offset each other’s production. The key will be which surrounding cast steps up.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds and point spreads for this game are yet to be released. Given the teams’ current form and standings, it’s anticipated to be a closely contested game, which should be reflected in the odds.
New York Knicks Betting Trends
The Knicks have fared well against the spread lately, covering in three of their previous five contests. They’ve also been solid on the road, going 10-7 against the number away from MSG. This bodes well for New York keeping this game close. However, bettors should beware of the Knicks’ propensity to play down or up to the level of their competition.
Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Trends
Oklahoma City has been a cover machine on their home court, going 9-3 against the spread in their last 12 games at Paycom Center. The over has also hit frequently, with nine of the Thunder’s past 15 home tilts eclipsing the total. These trends signal bettors may want to back OKC laying the short number while also playing the over.
New York Knicks vs. Oklahoma City Thunder 12/27/23 Betting Picks
After analyzing both teams’ performances and betting trends, this game appears to be a balanced matchup with each team bringing distinct strengths to the court. The Knicks’ rebounding ability and solid scoring could challenge the Thunder’s defensive prowess.
For bettors, it might be wise to focus on the individual player performances and specific game situations, such as over/under bets, considering both teams’ scoring abilities. The game’s outcome could hinge on the point guards’ duel, making prop bets on Brunson or Gilgeous-Alexander’s points and assists an interesting option. In terms of basketball tips today, the Thunder’s consistent performance and home advantage might give them a slight edge in this encounter.
Free Pick and Prediction: Oklahoma City Thunder 115, New York Knicks 110