🏀 New York Knicks – Golden State Warriors

The Golden State Warriors (16-15, 5-9 away) are coming after two consecutive losses on their road trip in the East, but you really have to feel that they could have (should have) won both of those. Against the Magic they blew a 13 point 4th quarter lead, and Saturday against the Hornets it was even worse.

Seconds prior to tip-off Steph Curry was ruled out of the lineup due to not feeling well, but the Warriors still found a way to compete and were leading by 10 points with less than 5 minutes to go. Then, with 10 seconds to go, up by 2 and with the ball, they failed to call a timeout, Wanamaker got tied up, Green went mental and got two technical fouls, Charlotte got two free throws and possession, and the game was suddenly over.

Point is the Warriors have played well, or at least decent. And they were coming after a stretch of very good games. It was just horrible mistakes (not calling timeouts / not challenging certain calls / getting technical fouls) and rough luck.

That’s why I think they are in a good position to take care of the Knicks tonight, because their level of play is still solid, and now they have a chip on their shoulder after the way they lost their last two, particularly in Charlotte. They almost always bounce back after ugly losses.

Look for the Warriors to be fired up and I think they will put on an energetic, consistent performance to run away with this game.

The Knicks (15-16, 8-6 home) did beat the Warriors in the Bay last month, and it was quite comfortable, but the Warriors were back to back and had one of their worst games of the season. Plus, Green was ejected at half time when it was still anybody’s game.

It must be said that New York won 4 of its last 5, and this is a decent team. But they’re not at Golden State’s level and their mini-run was helped by the teams they faced – three of the worst sides in the league, plus an average Atlanta side.

There are no new injuries to worry about (just Austin Rivers, questionable for the Knicks), and the Warriors might actually get Wiseman back (questionable). Steph Curry should play and I expect a big night from him after a couple of average performances and missing a game.

Pick: Warriors
Odds: 1.72 @ Bwin
Stake: 10
Possible profit: 7.20
Event date: 24 February