Knicks Battle Lakers in Marquee Matchup Tonight
Two of the hottest NBA markets will meet on the basketball betting line this Friday as the New York Knicks play host to the visiting Los Angeles Lakers at Madison Square Garden. More than just a celebrity socializer, however, the midseason tilt will shine a light on a pair of potential championship contenders.
Think Carmelo Anthony and Amar’e Stoudemire have the fortitude to hang with Kobe Bryant and not-so-distant-champion Lakers despite their slow start? If Los Angeles aims to cash in on the NBA betting line at least once more before Bryant’s legs give out, they’ll have to prove they can contend with talented younger opponents.
According to Bovada’s NBA odds makers the Lakers are among a select few with a legitimate shot at claiming the Larry O’Brien trophy next June, but the Knicks aren’t as far behind as they might hope.
With notable Harvard alum Jeremy Lin making headlines for his contributions in New York, a showcase against L.A.’s finest may serve to further the Knicks growing popularity.
More important than a growing fan base, however, is a team’s ability to win ball games. Though the Knicks are a factor on the NBA betting line, they won’t truly be considered dangerous until they can boost their record back above .500.
NBA Odds Favor Lakers Over Struggling Knicks at MSG
The New York Knicks have done a lot to rebrand their roster over the past two seasons, now they’ll look to redefine the level of impact they have on the actual NBA betting line. This Friday, Carmelo Anthony and the struggling Knicks will welcome the ever-popular Los Angeles Lakers to Madison Square Garden.
More than a simple showdown between two of the league’s most popular franchises, the midseason matchup features a pair of potential playoff contenders. Although the Lakers are considerably higher on the NBA futures list, the Knicks are – on paper at least – a team capable of dealing damage in the playoffs. Provided they can get there.
Would a victory over L.A. be enough to trigger a win streak in New York? These aren’t the Knicks of yesterday. With Anthony, Amar’e Stoudemire and now red-hot, fan favorite Jeremy Lin, a sub .500 mark is inexcusable.
