Houston Rockets vs New York Knicks Picks and Predictions November 4th 2024

Rockets vs Knicks November 4th 2024

At 8:45 ET, the 3-2 New York Knicks (-163) will travel to take on the 3-3 Houston Rockets (+138) in a non-conference matchup. The Knicks are currently favored by 3.5 points, and the over/under line is set at 219.

This game will be played at the Toyota Center in Houston and can be seen on SCHN.

Knicks vs. Rockets Key Information

The Knicks improved to 3-2 on the season with a dominant 128-98 win over the Pistons on Friday. New York, favored by 6.5 points, covered the spread, while the game’s total of 226 points went over the pre-game line of 219.

New York jumped out to a 39-13 lead after the 1st quarter, but the Pistons responded with a 10-0 run, closing the gap to 31-23. The Knicks regained control, outscoring Detroit 35-28 in the 3rd quarter, and both teams scored 24 points in the 4th.

Jalen Brunson’s 36-point performance, including 6 threes at 75% shooting, led the Knicks to a 128-point outing against the Pistons. Brunson shot 63.6% from the field, with 15 points in the 1st quarter and 11 more in the 2nd.

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New York connected on 18 threes, shooting 47.4% from deep and 51.5% overall. OG Anunoby and Karl-Anthony Towns each added 21 points, with Anunoby hitting 3 threes at 60% and Towns also making 3 from beyond the arc.

The Knicks’ defense was at its best in the 1st quarter, holding the Pistons to just 13 points, and they finished strong in the 4th, allowing 24 points. Overall, they gave up 98 points on 50% shooting from the field.

From beyond the arc, the Knicks limited the Pistons to 11 made threes on 32% shooting. They also sent Detroit to the free-throw line just 7 times, where they made 5. New York recorded 16 steals and 3 blocks.

After a 127-121 loss to the Warriors on Saturday, the Rockets are now 3-3 this season. Houston, favored by 5 points at home, not only lost but also failed to cover the spread. The game’s total points of 248 exceeded the pre-game O/U line of 216.5 by 31.5 points.

Houston fell behind early, trailing 38-20 after the 1st quarter and 71-43 at halftime. They rallied in the 2nd half, going on a 15-0 run to cut the score from 96-80 to 96-95, but ultimately couldn’t complete the comeback.

Jalen Brunson’s 36-point performance, including 6 threes at a 75% clip, led the Knicks to a 128-point outing in their win over the Pistons. Brunson was particularly effective early, scoring 15 points in the 1st quarter and adding 11 more in the 2nd.

New York hit 18 threes, shooting 47.4% from beyond the arc and 51.5% overall. OG Anunoby and Karl-Anthony Towns each added 21 points, with Anunoby making 3 threes at 60% and Towns also connecting on 3 from deep.

The Rockets’ defense struggled early, giving up 38 points in the 1st quarter and 33 in the 2nd, but they tightened up in the 2nd half, allowing just 25 points in the 3rd and 23 in the 4th. Despite the improved effort, they still allowed the Warriors to shoot 51% from the field.

From beyond the arc, the Warriors hit 15 threes at a 46% clip. Houston sent Golden State to the line 50 times, where they made 32 free throws. The Rockets finished with 31 defensive rebounds, allowing 9 offensive boards, and recorded 10 steals and 6 blocks.

Coming in as the underdogs at +3.5, we have the Rockets as the way to go on the point spread. Not only do we have them covering, but our projections show they have a good one of winning this one straight-up, if you’re looking for a higher payout on the moneyline.

As for the over/under, the the line is currently at 219, and our model projects the Knicks and Rockets to reach a combined total of 273 points. Our bet is on taking the over.

Knicks Aim to Build Momentum Against Unpredictable Rockets

The New York Knicks, continuing their four-game road trip, will meet the Houston Rockets on Monday night in a matchup highlighting two teams trending in opposite directions. The Knicks have shown glimpses of a potent offensive combination in Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns, while remaining grounded in their signature defensive grit under head coach Tom Thibodeau. Meanwhile, the Rockets are navigating the challenge of consistency as they attempt to string together solid performances in the face of frequent ups and downs.

Knicks Rely on Dynamic Duo and Defensive Backbone

The Knicks (3-2) have enjoyed offensive success through the efforts of Jalen Brunson and newly acquired Karl-Anthony Towns. Towns, who scored 44 points against the Miami Heat earlier this week, has quickly become a vital piece of the Knicks’ offensive structure. Brunson followed up with a stellar 36-point performance in a 128-98 win over the Detroit Pistons on Friday, showcasing the impact he and Towns can make when firing on all cylinders.

However, offense is only part of the Knicks’ equation. OG Anunoby, acquired in a trade last season, has solidified his role as a critical component of New York’s defensive identity. Against the Pistons, Anunoby contributed 21 points, six assists, four rebounds, and two steals, demonstrating the balance he brings to the Knicks’ lineup.

Thibodeau praised Anunoby’s activity and effectiveness, recognizing his ability to disrupt opponents while contributing on both ends of the floor.

“I love the way OG played,” Thibodeau remarked. “I thought his activity was phenomenal for us. … He’s really invaluable.”

With Anunoby’s impact felt throughout the lineup, the Knicks are gradually refining their blend of offense and defense. As Towns and Brunson continue to sync, Anunoby’s contributions provide the Knicks with the balance needed to become a legitimate Eastern Conference contender.

Rockets Seek Stability Amid Rollercoaster Performances

The Rockets (2-3) have struggled to maintain consistency, with wild swings in performance making them one of the most unpredictable teams in the league. After a convincing win over the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday, the Rockets suffered a 127-121 overtime loss to the Golden State Warriors, rallying from a 31-point deficit only to fall short in extra time.

This inconsistency has become a trademark of Houston’s early season, leaving head coach Ime Udoka searching for a reliable approach to steady his team’s play.

Udoka, who joined the Rockets with high expectations, expressed his frustration with the lack of sustained performance.

“Inconsistency is obviously not a good thing,” Udoka noted. “The fact that you either build a lead or fight back from a deficit, there are some positives to it. On the flip side is letting leads slip away or getting yourself in a big hole.”

In their first five games, the Rockets have shown both resilience and a tendency to lose control, either surrendering early leads or falling into significant deficits. Udoka emphasized the importance of staying focused throughout games, pointing to the lack of “full 48-minute performances” as the root of Houston’s instability.

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Key Matchups and Game Dynamics

1. Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson vs. Houston’s Defense
   The Knicks’ new duo presents a significant challenge for the Rockets, who have struggled defensively, especially during lapses late in games. If Brunson and Towns find a rhythm, they could capitalize on the Rockets’ inconsistencies.
2. OG Anunoby vs. Houston’s Young Core
   Anunoby’s defensive presence will be key to containing the Rockets’ leading scorers, including Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun. Anunoby’s ability to limit second-chance points and guard multiple positions will be essential for the Knicks.
3. Ime Udoka’s Challenge of In-Game Consistency
   For the Rockets, minimizing erratic play is crucial. Udoka’s focus will be on establishing a disciplined, steady pace against a Knicks team known for defensive intensity.

Outlook

The Knicks arrive in Houston with offensive momentum and a solid defensive foundation, making them a formidable opponent for the Rockets. While Houston has displayed resilience, their inability to sustain focus and momentum raises questions. The Rockets’ task will be to maintain consistency and resist falling into lapses against a Knicks team well-equipped to exploit mistakes.

For the Knicks, this matchup presents an opportunity to showcase the developing chemistry between Towns and Brunson while tightening their defensive approach led by Anunoby. If they maintain control on both ends of the floor, New York has a strong chance to secure a win and continue their upward trajectory in the Eastern Conference.

Ultimately, if Houston can pull together a full 48 minutes and avoid their typical lapses, this could be a competitive battle. However, the Knicks’ balance of offensive firepower and defensive grit makes them a likely favorite to emerge victorious in a clash of contrasting approaches.