Knicks Host Struggling Wizards: Preview, Odds, and Predictions for November 18, 2024

The New York Knicks are set to host the Washington Wizards at Madison Square Garden on Monday, November 18, 2024, in an Eastern Conference matchup. The Knicks, currently sitting at 6-6 and fourth in the Eastern Conference, are favored to win against the struggling Wizards, who are 2-9 and in 14th place in the conference.

The Wizards have had a dismal start to the season, losing eight consecutive games, including a recent 124-104 defeat to the Detroit Pistons. Despite having scoring depth with players like Jordan Poole (22.2 ppg) and Kyle Kuzma (17.2 ppg), the team’s defensive struggles have hindered their ability to secure wins. The Wizards rank 24th in both field-goal percentage and three-point percentage, which could be a significant disadvantage against the Knicks’ potent offense.

The Knicks, on the other hand, are gaining momentum after winning two straight games, including a 114-104 victory over the Brooklyn Nets. Karl-Anthony Towns (26.5 ppg) and Jalen Brunson (25.3 ppg) form a formidable duo that has been instrumental in the Knicks’ recent success. The team boasts one of the league’s best offenses, ranking second in field-goal percentage and fifth in three-point percentage.

Injuries are a concern for the Knicks, with Precious Achiuwa (hamstring), Mitchell Robinson (ankle), and Miles McBride (knee) all out. However, the team’s strong offense and home advantage at Madison Square Garden are expected to give them a significant edge. The Knicks have won five straight games against the Wizards, including all three meetings last season.

Betting odds favor the Knicks, with a spread of -13.5 to -14 points. The over/under is set at 229.5 to 232.5 points, reflecting the high-scoring potential of both teams. Predictions suggest the Knicks will cover the spread and secure a win, given their strong offense and the Wizards’ defensive woes.

The game tips off at 7:30 PM ET, and fans can expect a high-energy matchup with plenty of scoring opportunities. The Knicks’ ability to maintain their offensive pace and capitalize on the Wizards’ defensive vulnerabilities will be key to their success in this game.