The Knicks have already secured a place in the Play-In at minimum, but look likely to have an automatic berth based on how well they are currently doing. The Hornets have been among the form teams recently, but they remain on the bubble, so this is one that they may feel they have to win to give themselves the best chance. For those new to how to bet on the NBA, this matchup offers plenty of angles to consider.
Quick Picks
Our pick: Knicks to win
Value bet: Hornets in the handicap
Long shot: Knueppel to have '5+ Made Threes'
Betting Preview
The two teams will have played a game on Wednesday before entering this one. Heading into those fixtures, they were both enjoying plenty of success on the court. Each team was 7-3 over their last 10 games, with the Knicks on a six-game winning streak and the Hornets on a three-game run.
As noted, Charlotte have been enjoying their basketball more recently, compared to earlier in the regular season. The Hornets are just above .500, giving them a chance to play in the postseason.
Their away form has been better than their home, but they will host New York with a record that is almost level (depending on the Kings game). When it comes to playing teams in the East, they are 22-22 for the year.
On the flip side, the Knicks have enjoyed themselves for large parts of the season. Having won the NBA Cup earlier in the year, they are 20-16 when playing on the road. Furthermore, their form against Eastern Conference teams is something that they'll be proud of, as they are 31-15.
Betting Markets to Watch
The Knicks have dominated the last 10 meetings between these two teams, with an 8-2 record. The last two meetings have been won by New York, which involved one trip to Charlotte (129-101 in Nov. 2025). However, the previous visit to Charlotte saw them lose 115-98 (last season).
Still, the Knicks are likely to be favoured, given their strong record and overall form. They've been solid over the last 10 or so games (as have the Hornets) and will do as much as they can to make sure they have the highest seed possible heading into the NBA playoffs betting period.
A close game is likely, which is why we think there's value worth exploring in the handicap market. The Hornets have played well, even when they've lost, and we think that they will keep things tight against the Knicks.
Player props worth value exploring could involve Kon Knueppel. He has been exceptional for the vast majority of the year for threes, which is why we think there'll be value in him having '5+ Made Threes' in this game.
Our Prediction
Check the latest NBA betting odds at Sportsbet.
We believe the New York Knicks are likely winners in this match, but we think it'll be close. This means there's potential value to consider in the handicap line for Charlotte, as we think they'll keep the scores close and cover the spread.
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