New York Knicks vs. Miami Heat: Game Preview and Betting Insights, March 17, 2025
The New York Knicks (42-24) are set to host the Miami Heat (29-38) on Monday, March 17, 2025, at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks aim to solidify their position in the Eastern Conference, while the Heat seek to end a seven-game losing streak.
Team Performance and Standings
New York Knicks: Holding a strong 42-24 record, the Knicks currently occupy the third spot in the Eastern Conference. Despite recent challenges, including a narrow loss to the Golden State Warriors, they remain a formidable team, especially at home.
Miami Heat: With a 29-38 record, the Heat have slipped to ninth place in the Eastern Conference. Their recent performance includes a seven-game losing streak, highlighting struggles both offensively and defensively.
Injury Updates
New York Knicks:
Jalen Brunson (PG): Out with a right ankle sprain; expected to miss 3-4 weeks.
Miami Heat:
Alec Burks (SG): Out due to a lower back strain.
Andrew Wiggins (SF): Questionable with a lower leg injury.
Projected Starting Lineups
New York Knicks:
PG: Miles McBride
SG: Mikal Bridges
SF: Josh Hart
PF: OG Anunoby
C: Karl-Anthony Towns
Miami Heat:
PG: Tyler Herro
SG: Duncan Robinson
SF: Andrew Wiggins (if available)
PF: Bam Adebayo
C: Kel'el Ware
Player Prop Predictions
New York Knicks:
Karl-Anthony Towns (C): Over 14.5 rebounds. Towns has averaged 13.1 rebounds per game this season but has seen a slight dip to under 12 RPG since February. Given the Heat's recent struggles, Towns is expected to surpass his season average, potentially reaching 14-16 rebounds.
Miles McBride (PG): Over 14.5 points. In Brunson's absence, McBride has stepped up, averaging 14.5 points over the last four games. He is anticipated to maintain or slightly exceed this scoring pace in the upcoming matchup.
Miami Heat:
Andrew Wiggins (SF): Over 18.5 points. Since joining the Heat, Wiggins has averaged around 18 points per game. If he plays, he is projected to score between 19-21 points against the Knicks.
Kel'el Ware (C): Over 9.5 rebounds. The rookie center has averaged 6.5 rebounds over the last four games. However, he is expected to capitalize on the Knicks' shooting tendencies, potentially securing 10-12 rebounds in this contest.
Betting Insights
Point Spread: Knicks favored by 7.5 points.
Over/Under: Set at 212.5 points.
Prediction
Considering the Knicks' home-court advantage and the Heat's recent struggles, New York is favored to win this matchup. The Knicks' balanced offense and solid defense position them well against a Miami team looking to regain its footing. Bettors might consider taking the Knicks against the spread and exploring the under on total points, given both teams' recent scoring trends.
For more expert picks and betting insights, check out Bettor Center’s subscription page for premium betting analysis!
