PHI 76ers – NY Knicks

Philadelphia 76ers will host the crumbling New York Knicks, with the Knicks rated as 2.5 point spread favorites by the bookies.

The Sixers (10-25, 6-24 home) are slowly getting better after years of misery. They won just 10 games last year, but they have already tied that mark this season after less than half of the season. With rookie Joel Embiid leading the way, the Sixers have won 3 of their last 4 and even their loss was impressive, a 4 point defeat away at strong Boston.

The underachieving Knicks (17-21, 6-13 away) came into the season with great expectations but it was pretty clear they were overrated. Still, they definitely should have done better than this 17-21 record and right now the team seems to be crumbling, as they seem on track to miss the playoffs yet again. New York lost 8 out of its last 9 matches and starting PG Derrick Rose was an unmotivated absent in their loss to New Orleans two days ago. It is unclear if Rose will play today against the Sixers.

I reckon the young Sixers have a great chance to get another win under their belt here, as New York looks like the perfect opponent for them. The Knicks play with no heart and the atmosphere in the locker room is horrible – how often do you see guys simply not showing up for games and not answering their phone, like Rose did two days ago? Everybody seems to want change in New York and if the Knicks will come out flat again, not putting in a big effort, that will be a problem for them against the Sixers.

Philadelphia is high on morale right now and they always play with a lot of energy, especially at home. That energy should be the difference maker, as it`s not likely for New York to match it (especially since they are dirt poor on the road). Look for the 76ers to crash the boards, get offensive rebounds, get the 50-50 balls and maybe shoot more free throws.

In a game of fine margins, Philadelphia’s attitude and home court advantage should be enough to grant them the win. It also has to be said that at the moment they are simply playing better basketball than New York. Of course, there`s also the chance for Derrick Rose to miss the game, which would be another problem for the Knicks. If Rose will be out, I can see Philadelphia becoming the odds on favorite until game time.

My tip here is Philadelphia to cover the 3 point handicap. Prediction: Philadelphia 76ers – New York Knicks 110 – 105.

Pick: 76ers +3
Odds: 1.83 @ Pinnacle
Stake: 8
Possible profit: 6.64
Event date: 11 January