Washington-wizards vs New York Knicks Picks and Predictions December 30th 2024

Streaking Knicks Aim for Better Defensive Effort vs. Wizards

After a thrilling overtime win on Saturday night, the New York Knicks will look to extend their winning streak to eight games when they face the Washington Wizards again on Monday in the nation’s capital. This time, the Knicks hope for a sharper defensive performance to match their potent offense.

Knicks Riding Momentum but Seeking Defensive Improvement

The Knicks are in the midst of their longest winning streak since January-February 2024, with five of those victories decided by single digits. They’ve showcased offensive firepower during this run, surpassing 130 points three times, but defensive lapses were evident in Saturday’s 136-132 overtime triumph over the Wizards.

Jalen Brunson powered the Knicks with 55 points, including 42 in the second half and overtime, to rally his team from an 11-point deficit. His clutch performance included a game-tying shot in the final seconds of regulation.

“We needed it,” Knicks forward Josh Hart said. “This one was a tough one for us. Back-to-back. … We were a little slow. But he (Brunson) made big shots. That’s why he’s the captain. Find a way to win.”

Brunson is listed as questionable for Monday’s game with right calf tightness, but his contributions have been pivotal during this streak. Alongside Brunson, Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns have stepped up. Bridges dropped 41 points against San Antonio last week, while Towns has recorded three 30-point games during the streak, including a 30-point, 14-rebound performance on Saturday.

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The Knicks will aim to tighten their defense, which allowed a season-high 136 points on Saturday, while continuing their efficient offense, which shot 52.6 percent in the previous game.

Wizards Building Momentum Despite Losses

The Wizards have shown signs of improvement since snapping their 16-game losing streak, going 3-6 in their last nine outings. They pushed the Knicks to the brink on Saturday, scoring their second-most points of the season and shooting 51.6 percent from the field.

Julian Champagnie was a standout, scoring 31 points after totaling just 14 in his previous three games. Malcolm Brogdon added 22 points, but Washington struggled to contain New York’s paint presence, allowing 78 points in the interior.

“This team is actually just getting better every day,” Brogdon said. “Even with the losses … we’ve seen ourselves … get better every day, every practice, every game.”

The Wizards hope to welcome back Kyle Kuzma, who has been sidelined with a rib injury since Nov. 27. His return would provide a significant boost to Washington’s offense.

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Key Factors for Monday’s Matchup

1. Brunson’s Availability: Brunson’s health is critical to the Knicks’ offense. If he’s unable to play, New York will lean heavily on Towns and Bridges for scoring.
2. Defensive Adjustments: Both teams allowed high-scoring outputs on Saturday, with the Knicks conceding 51.6 percent shooting. Improved defensive efforts will be crucial.
3. Kuzma’s Return: The Wizards are eager to see Kuzma back in action. His scoring and versatility could help Washington secure a much-needed win.

The Knicks are poised to continue their winning streak, but they’ll need a more complete performance to hold off a Wizards team showing signs of growth. With Kuzma’s potential return and the possibility of Brunson sitting out, this matchup could be closer than expected.