Adam Williams presents his prediction for the NBA match.
Back in December, the Los Angeles Clippers dominated the New York Knicks, winning by 22 points. This time, the game will take place at the newly inaugurated Intuit Dome. The Clippers have struggled on the road but remain formidable at home, while the Knicks are coming off a gruelling battle against the Los Angeles Lakers and will face the Clippers on the second leg of a back-to-back.
Los Angeles Clippers
The Clippers snapped their losing streak with a solid 123:115 victory over the Detroit Pistons. James Harden delivered a spectacular 50-point performance in the absence of Norman Powell and Kawhi Leonard. The good news for the team is that Leonard is expected to return, although the status of Ben Simmons and Derrick Jones Jr. remains uncertain. At home, the Clippers have been dominant, posting an 18-6 record since mid-November. Their defence is one of the best in the league, conceding just 108.9 points per game (4th in the NBA).
New York Knicks
The Knicks, meanwhile, have lost two in a row. The absence of Mitchell Robinson, OG Anunoby, and Precious Achiuwa proved costly in their 102:114 defeat to the Golden State Warriors. Anunoby returned against the Lakers but managed only 20 points, while Robinson played just 13 minutes, contributing six points. Even with these reinforcements, the Knicks fell in overtime (109:113). Defence has been a major issue for the team—they allow 112.9 points per game (13th in the NBA) and have the worst opponent three-point percentage in the league (37.4%). Additionally, the Knicks have struggled in back-to-backs, posting a 5-4 record this season.
Los Angeles Clippers vs New York Knicks Prediction
The Clippers are strong at home, while the Knicks, coming off a tough game against the Lakers, may struggle to maintain the pace on the road. Kawhi Leonard and James Harden provide considerable offensive firepower for the Clippers, and the absence of several key players for the Knicks could impact their squad depth.
