The New York Knicks (11-8) return to Madison Square Garden tonight to take on the New Orleans Pelicans (4-16). The Knicks are happy to be home after a grueling five-game road trip, while the Pelicans look to end their seven-game losing streak and begin their climb out of the Western Conference cellar.

New York’s offense remains a bright spot, ranking third in the NBA (fifth overall) with an offensive rating of 122 and an average of 117.8 points per game. However, the team faltered in its final two games, losing in Dallas and surviving Charlotte with a narrow win. Both opponents had success against New York by switching up their defenses, a tactic New Orleans may look to adopt.

The Pelicans are in a tough spot offensively, averaging a league-low 103.5 points per game. Brandon Ingram (22.9 PPG) is the team’s leading scorer, but is out as are Zion Williamson (no surprise), Jordan Hawkins and Jose Alvarado. New Orleans is expected to start Dejounte Murray (PG), CJ McCollum (SG), Javonte Green (F), Trey Murphy III (F) and rookie Yves Missi (C).

The Knicks are without Mitchell Robinson, Precious Achiuwa and Kevin McCullar Jr.

forecast

ESPN gives the Knicks a 75% chance of winning – maybe their prediction isn’t higher? I’m kidding, I’m kidding. New Orleans still has capable players like Murray and McCollum, but the Knicks should benefit from their return in front of a home crowd (even if it felt like they had one in Charlotte) and the lessons they learned from the road trip.

New York ranks second in effective field goal percentage (58%) and excels at limiting opponents’ opportunities, leads the league in rebounds allowed (39.8) and is among the best in rebounds allowed preventing defensive rebounds, steals and two-point attempts. New York’s talent far surpasses the team the Pels will field today, which should be reflected in the final result. New York at +10.

Game details

Location: Madison Square Garden, NYC

Date: Sunday, December 1, 2024

Time: 6pm ET

Regard: MSG, ABC, NBA TV

Consequences: @ptknicksblog And bsky