New York Knicks vs Los Angeles Lakers Basketball Preview - 03-06-2025
When these two teams last met on Feb. 1, a seismic shift occurred when Los Angeles Lakers acquired Luka Doncic from Dallas Mavericks. Since then, New York Knicks have gone 8-5 and need one victory to get back into playoff contention, while LA Lakers are in fine form with six straight victories to move them into third in the West Division.
New York doesn't rely on 3-point shooting much, and is one of the slowest teams in the NBA when it comes to pace; that should help keep this contest close. On the other hand, Los Angeles ranks fifth in opponent three-point percentage and have been solid defensively over their last ten games; that should give them an advantage here as they contest shots and pick off steals here as well.
Josh Hart may have struggled, but still managed double-digit points and rebounds in 10 of his last 12 games so I'd wager the over here. Jaxson Hayes of the Lakers has been an exceptional rim protector recently as he recorded at least one block in 15 of 17 outings over this stretch - something the Knicks rank 25th in opponent blocks against so could cause their shots to be blocked by Hayes here.
LA should benefit from Austin Reaves' return, listed as probable here. Meanwhile, New York is dealing with injuries such as those to PF Precious Achiuwa (hamstring), C Mitchell Robinson (ankle), and OG Anunoby (thumb).
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