Dallas Mavericks vs. New York Knicks: Predictions, Starting Lineups (2/8/24)
The Dallas Mavericks (28-23) take on the New York Knicks (33-18) this Thursday (2/8/24). Get Mavericks vs. Knicks moneyline and spread odds, as well as predictions, starting lineups, injuries, and key matchups below.
Dallas Mavericks vs. New York Knicks Prediction
Dallas enters this contest without Dereck Lively II or Dante Exum, but that’s nothing compared to New York’s woes. Jalen Brunson, Julius Randle, OG Anunoby, and Mitchell Robinson are all out, while Quentin Grimes was just traded to Detroit.
Dallas scores a prolific 121.6 points per 100 possessions when Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving share the court (via NBA.com). With Anunoby sidelined, New York will struggle mightily to pressure Doncic, who can pick apart their defense. For example, the Knicks allow the seventh most corner attempts per game, which doesn’t bode well for them here. Plus, it’s unlikely that the Knicks’ guards can stay in front of Irving, especially with the amount of spacing due to Maxi Kleber getting the start at center. Isaiah Hartenstein’s rim protection isn’t as crucial in this matchup too, as Dallas takes the fewest field goal attempts per game within eight feet of the basket.
Meanwhile, New York’s decimated bench faces a Mavericks second unit that features Tim Hardaway Jr, Dwight Powell, and Jaden Hardy. That group is far more explosive than a Taj Gibson and Jericho Sims duo. Essentially, the Mavericks should thrive when starters begin to rest. Plus, New York will be gassed by the fourth quarter due to their non-existent depth.
Defensively, there are definitely concerns for Dallas. They lack rebounding and rim protection against a big Knicks team that can be aggressive around the basket. However, Dallas’ depth advantage and deadly offense will be too much for New York. Look for the Mavericks to win by around ten points.
Dallas Mavericks vs. New York Knicks Prediction: Mavericks -3.5
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Dallas Mavericks vs. New York Knicks Best Odds
Dallas is favored by five points, although that could change depending on Jalen Brunson’s status. They are an excellent 17-11 against the spread as favorites, while New York owns an 8-9-2 record against the spread as underdogs.
For the Knicks’ +175 moneyline to be profitable in the long run, they need to win this game at least 36 percent of the time.
Dallas Mavericks Starting Lineup
PG: Luka Doncic
SG: Kyrie Irving
SF: Josh Green
PF: Derrick Jones Jr.
C: Maxi Kleber
New York Knicks Starting Lineup
PG: Miles McBride
SG: Donte DiVincenzo
SF: Josh Hart
PF: Precious Achiuwa
C: Isaiah Hartenstein
Dallas Mavericks vs. New York Knicks Injuries
Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving are probable, but Dallas will be without Dante Exum, Dereck Lively II, and potentially a questionable Maxi Kleber. On the other side, New York lacks Jalen Brunson, Julius Randle, OG Anunoby, and Mitchell Robinson.
Dallas Mavericks vs. New York Knicks Key Matchups
Jalen Brunson’s Absence
The first time All-Star is averaging 27.2 points and 6.5 assists on efficient 48/41/83 shooting splits. He is their offensive engine and top advantage creator, so the offense probably crumbles without him on the court considering the injuries. Miles McBride has to have an abnormally elite playmaking and shooting night for New York to keep this close.
