#150

New York Knicks (2-1)

vs

Philadelphia 76ers (2-1)

A classic rivalry which has been dominated by the 76ers the past few years may take a turn tonight. The 76ers have won their last 17 against the Knicks and Ben Simmons has never lost to them. However, the Knicks look like a completely different team this year after adding Kemba Walker and Evan Fournier to the lineup, as well as their young talent improving a lot last season. The 76ers are without Simmons tonight, and Embiid and backup center Andre Drummond are questionable. These factors combined lead the Knicks to being slight betting favorites tonight at home, a spread I think they will cover. They are 25-16 ATS in their last 41 at home and face a banged up 76ers team. However, the 76ers do have a lot of defensive talent, and the Knicks are a very defensive minded team coached by Tom Thibodeau. As a result, I expect a very low scoring and tough game between these rivals. Take the under 217 total points and Julius Randle under 23.5 points.