The Knicks thought they were ready to take on the Big Boss to enter this season, as they won 47 and 50 games over the last two seasons and went all-in with the acquisitions of Mikal Bridges and Karl-Anthony Towns. But the defending champion Celtics humbled them on their ring ceremony night, making it rain from downtown and sending the Knicks back to NYC with their eyes glued to the cement.
But the sun rose the next day and the sky did not fall, and it was just one game on a schedule with 81 more. Game number 2 will take place in MSG on Friday, with the Pacers coming to town.
Jalen Brunson was uber-efficient against the Celtics, going 9-of-14 for 22 points, but he only played 25 minutes due to the blowout. I doubt a repeat is in store, as the MSG crowd will be rocking and the Knicks will look to show the world that they are for real.
Here are some intriguing player props for Jalen Brunson on DraftKings Sportsbook against the Pacers:
Best Jalen Brunson Best Prop Bets on DraftKings Sportsbook
Last season, the Pacers were second in offensive pace. They will likely be among the league leaders once again. In addition, Indiana was second in offensive efficiency behind the Celtics, so the Knicks likely won’t be able to slog their way to victory. They are going to have to score points and match the Pacers.
These teams played three times in the regular season last year. In the first game, the Pacers won 140-126. In the second meeting, the Knicks won 109-105. In the final matchup, the Pacers won 125-111.
Brunson went for 28, 40 and 39 points in those meetings! He attempted 22, 30 and 25 shots. It’s highly likely that he puts up over 20 shots on Friday, as the usage rate was 39% against Boston.
As of 9:00 PM ET on Thursday, DK Sportsbook has the O/U for Brunson points at 28.5. The Over is -120 while the Under is -110.
I like the Over 28.5 for Brunson in this one. I think the Knicks bounce back in a big way in front of the home court with Brunson being the lead man, putting up over 30 points.
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All odds provided by DraftKings Sportsbook, lines and odds subject to change.
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