Philadelphia 76ers (15-23) vs New York Knicks (26-15)
Game Info: Wednesday, January 15, 2025 at 7:00 pm (Wells Fargo Center)
Betting Odds: Philadelphia 76ers +6.5 -- Over/Under: 218 Click Here for the Latest Odds
Where to Watch: ESPN
The New York Knicks (26-15) are set to face the Philadelphia 76ers (15-22) on January 15, 2025, at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia. The Knicks, currently third in the Eastern Conference, are coming off a home loss to the Detroit Pistons. They have been performing well offensively, ranking sixth in the NBA in points per game. Defensively, they are 11th in points allowed per game. Key players include Jalen Brunson, who led the team with 31 points and 11 assists in their recent game, and Karl-Anthony Towns, who contributed 26 points and 12 rebounds.
The 76ers have been struggling with injuries, notably to former MVP Joel Embiid. They are currently well under .500 and fighting for a playoff spot. Offensively, they rank 13th in the NBA in scoring but are 23rd in field goal shooting. Defensively, they are 16th in points allowed per game. In their recent loss to the Orlando Magic, Tyrese Maxey led the team with 29 points, while Paul George added 25 points, 10 rebounds, and six assists.
Kelly Oubre Under 6.5 Rebounds
Kelly Oubre Jr. has been a consistent contributor to the Philadelphia 76ers. He’s averaging 5.8 rebounds per game. His rebounding efforts include an average of 1.6 offensive rebounds and 4.1 defensive rebounds per game. Additionally, Oubre contributes 15.1 points per game, showcasing his scoring ability alongside his rebounding prowess.
This Sixers team has had to rely on Oubre when it comes to a rebounding perspective with the consistent absence of Joel Embid. When looking at his numbers Oubre is on and off when it comes to his rebounding stats and we've seen him struggle on the glass when facing the better rebounding teams in the league. He’ll struggle in this one going against the New York Knicks who allow only 48.2 rebounds per game to opposing teams which is the fewest in the whole league.
Tyrese Maxey Over 26.5 Points
Tyrese Maxey has been a standout scorer for the Philadelphia 76ers during the 2024-25 NBA season. He’s averaging 25.7 points per game, ranking 8th in the league. In addition to his scoring, Maxey contributes 3.4 rebounds and 5.9 assists per game. We’ve seen him get up to 45 points in a single game earlier this season.
Tyrese Maxey has scored 29 or more points in his last four games and I don't see him slowing down in this one. With the absence of Joel Embid and the inconsistencies from Paul George Tyrese Maxey has had to step up in a big way to keep the Sixers team in games. Until he gets help from the Sixer's supporting cast I’ll continue to hammer the over on Maxey's points.
Jalen Brunson Over 25.5 Points
Jalen Brunson has been a standout performer for the New York Knicks. He’s averaging 25.7 points per game, ranking him among the league's top scorers. In addition to his scoring, Brunson contributes 3.0 rebounds and 7.6 assists per game, showcasing his versatility and playmaking abilities.
Brunson delivered an exceptional performance, scoring 44 points, along with 5 rebounds and 6 assists, leading the Knicks to a decisive 140-106 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks just a couple of games ago. He followed that up with a 31-point game against the Pistons. Brunson is currently on fire and I’m looking to ride the hot hand.
Brad’s Pick See Above
AUTHOR: Brad Francis
