NBA Rivals Week continues with a showdown in New York when the struggling Brooklyn Nets (12-29) visit the struggling New York Knicks (25-18) on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. Tipoff from Madison Square Garden is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET.
The Knicks, who are on a 12-game winning streak in the straight series, are clear favorites with 11.5 points. Here are the betting insights and predictions from SportsLine’s proven model.
Nets vs. Knicks betting odds and details
Both teams enter this crosstown battle in crisis. The Nets have lost seven of their last eight games, while the Knicks have been on the defensive for four games. Despite their recent form, the home team’s chances at The Garden are much more favorable.
Also read: The Heat’s offensive attack ends the Kings’ winning streak in Sacramento
Important game information:
- Date and time: Wednesday, January 21, 2026, 7:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Madison Square Garden, New York, NY
- Streaming: FuboTV (Try for free)
- Current odds (via DraftKings):
- Spread: Knicks -11.5
- Money line: Knicks -621 | Nets +451
- Over/Under: 220.5 total points
Predictions and expert picks from the SportsLine model
The SportsLine projection model, which simulates every NBA game 10,000 times and has generated over $10,000 in winnings for $100 NBA bettors, has released its coveted picks for this matchup.
The model’s top recommendation:
- When it comes to the overall score (220.5), the model is way ahead. The simulation predicts a high-scoring affair, requiring a total of 228 points and reaching the over in 54% of simulations. This is consistent with recent trends: the last time they met at MSG, there were 232 points, and Brooklyn’s last two games were blown away. Both teams rank in the bottom four in defending the three-point line, setting the stage for an offensive shootout.
Additional insights:
- Advantage of reporting an injury: The Knicks have a clean injury record, with the model projecting six players to score in double figures, including two over 20 points.
- Key return: Cam Thomas, Brooklyn’s second-leading scorer, is expected to be back in the lineup and bolster their offensive potential.
- Against the spread tip: The model also identified a strong choice against the spread, hitting in well over 50% of simulations.
Prepare for the game:
Here’s how to make your Knicks vs. Nets picks
While the Knicks have dominated this series of late and are clear favorites, the model sees value beyond the obvious money line. The most statistically sound plays involve the total score of the game and a specific side of the spread.
Sources:
This preview is based on game details, official odds and SportsLine’s proprietary analysis.
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