The New York Knicks invade the Smoothie King Center to battle the New Orleans Pelicans on Saturday night.
New York Knicks Betting Preview
The New York Knicks would've been kicking themselves after they missed out on a win in their season opener, but they made up for it with a 126-120 road win at Atlanta last night. Jalen Brunson led the team with 31 points and five assists, RJ Barrett added 26 points and six assists while Julius Randle chipped in with 17 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists. As a team, the Knicks shot 47 percent from the field and a sizzling 20 of 44 from the 3-point line as they came out swinging with 69 points in the first half to take the early lead, before they went on a crucial 7-0 run late in the fourth quarter to escape with the gritty victory.
New Orleans Pelicans Betting Preview
Meanwhile, the New Orleans Pelicans are aiming for their second straight win after taking care of the shorhanded Grizzlies in a 111-104 road win on Wednesday. CJ McCollum led the team with 24 points and six assists on eight of 16 shooting, Zion Williamson added 23 points on nine of 17 shooting while Brandon Ingram tallied 19 points with seven rebounds and six assists. As a team, the Pelicans shot 47 percent from the field and 14 of 32 from the 3-point line as they took control of the contest with a 32-19 second quarter, before they held off a late charge from the Grizzlies who cut their lead to single dates late. All five starters finished in double figures in scoring, but the Pelicans did commit a total of 21 turnovers as a team.
Peter's Pick
The Knicks don't have any players on the injury report, while the Pelicans have ruled out Trey Murphy and Jose Alverado once again. The Knicks will be feeling much better after taking down the Hawks last night and they've already shown in two games that they haven't lost their gritty identity from last season. The Pelicanas will be well rested as they haven't played since their win over the shorthanded Grizzlies, so it's no surprise that they're favorites at home. You can make an argument for either side here, but I've been more impressed with the Knicks so far and I think they can get another win on the road in this spot.
AUTHOR: Peter Tran
