New York Knicks vs Utah Jazz Picks and Predictions January 1st 2025

Knicks seeking ninth straight win, face struggling Jazz

Under the calm leadership of head coach Tom Thibodeau and team captain Jalen Brunson, the New York Knicks have emerged as serious contenders in the NBA. While they may not publicly declare championship aspirations, their performance throughout 2024 sends a clear message: the Knicks are determined to end their 50-year title drought.

As they prepare to host the Utah Jazz on Wednesday night, the Knicks aim to extend their eight-game winning streak and continue building momentum into the new year.

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Knicks Riding High: A Year of Progress

The Knicks closed out 2024 with a 126-106 victory over the Washington Wizards, marking their eighth consecutive win. The team’s achievements over the past year include a stellar 56-27 record in regular-season games and a deep playoff run, culminating in Game 7 of the Eastern Conference semifinals. These feats underscore the significant progress made by the franchise, which is still chasing its first championship since 1973.

Several key roster additions have fueled the Knicks’ rise. Karl-Anthony Towns, acquired in October from the Minnesota Timberwolves, has been a game-changer. In Monday’s win, he delivered a dominant performance with 32 points and 13 rebounds, recording his 27th double-double of the season.

OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges, brought in through trades from Toronto and Brooklyn respectively, have also solidified the Knicks’ lineup. Anunoby scored 18 points and grabbed eight rebounds, while Bridges contributed across the board with 13 points, six rebounds, and six assists.

Meanwhile, holdovers Jalen Brunson and Josh Hart continue to excel. Brunson provided his trademark stability, finishing with 18 points and six assists, while Hart recorded his third triple-double of the season with 23 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists.

“Our goal is simple: win every game,” Brunson said after Monday’s victory. “We have a game plan, and we’re going to adjust as we go. We know we’ve got the weapons to succeed.”

Utah Jazz: Rebuilding Amid Challenges

In stark contrast to the Knicks, the Utah Jazz find themselves in a rebuilding phase. With a 7-24 record, the Jazz are struggling to find consistency amid a wave of injuries that have derailed their plans. Collin Sexton is the only player on the roster who has played in every game this season, highlighting the team’s injury woes.

On Monday, the Jazz fell to the Denver Nuggets 132-121, their fourth consecutive loss. Injuries to key players like John Collins (left hip) and Keyonte George (recently returned from a sprained ankle) have left Utah shorthanded. Despite this, head coach Will Hardy remains optimistic about the team’s incremental progress.

“Our energy faded in the second half, and that’s something we can control,” Hardy said. “But I’m proud of some of the steps our guys are taking.”

The Jazz have suffered 13 losses this season by 11 points or fewer, including Monday’s defeat, which saw them outscored 34-23 in a pivotal third quarter. George, returning after missing four games, contributed seven points and six assists in 28 minutes.

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Knicks’ Depth Shines

One of the Knicks’ greatest strengths this season has been their depth. Beyond the star performances of Towns and Brunson, the team’s role players have consistently stepped up. Anunoby and Bridges have meshed seamlessly with the team’s core, while Hart’s versatility adds an extra dimension to the Knicks’ playstyle.

This depth has allowed the Knicks to keep pace with the defending champion Boston Celtics, who hold a slim lead over New York for second place in the Eastern Conference standings.

“We’ve got a lot of weapons,” Brunson said. “When everyone contributes, it makes us that much harder to beat.”

Jazz Looking to Build for the Future

While this season has been challenging, the Jazz remain focused on long-term growth. With a young core and future draft assets, Utah has the foundation for a brighter future. Players like George, despite recent injuries, represent a potential cornerstone for the team.

“We’re building something bigger than just this season,” Hardy noted. “The effort we’re putting in now will pay dividends down the road.”

Matchup Outlook

The upcoming game serves as a litmus test for both teams:

• For the Knicks: It’s a chance to continue their winning streak, strengthen their standing in the East, and further build their case as legitimate contenders.
• For the Jazz: Despite the odds, this is an opportunity to test their resolve, develop their young players, and show incremental improvements.

Conclusion

The Knicks’ rise in 2024 has transformed them into one of the league’s most exciting teams to watch, with aspirations to finally capture a title. Meanwhile, the Jazz, though struggling, are laying the groundwork for future success. As these two teams face off, fans can expect a showcase of determination and contrasting paths in the NBA journey.

Will the Knicks extend their streak to nine, or can the Jazz pull off an upset? One thing is certain: the new year holds exciting possibilities for both teams.