The Oklahoma City Thunder visit the New York Knicks on Friday in a clash between two of the NBA’s top teams. The Thunder, fresh off a franchise-record 15-game winning streak led by star guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, will aim to bounce back after a 129-122 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday.
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, a consistent offensive force for Oklahoma City, will again be the focal point as the Thunder face a tough Knicks defense led by Karl-Anthony Towns.
Here’s the featured Gilgeous-Alexander prop bet on DraftKings Sportsbook to consider for Friday’s game in New York.
Best Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Prop Bet on DraftKings Sportsbook
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander Over 38.5 Points + Assists (-115)
Gilgeous-Alexander has been the engine of the Thunder’s offense this season, averaging 31.3 points, 6.1 assists, and 5.6 rebounds across 36 games. He’s coming off a 31-point performance against Cleveland, his 21st 30-point outing of the season. In his lone meeting with the Knicks this year, he scored 33 points while adding seven assists and four rebounds, showcasing his ability to deliver against New York’s defensive schemes.
The Knicks, with Towns back in the lineup, snapped a three-game skid with a 112-98 win over the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday. Towns recorded his 31st double-double of the season, highlighting New York’s balanced attack. However, the Knicks’ defense will have its hands full trying to contain Gilgeous-Alexander, who thrives in isolation and pick-and-roll situations.
Even with Oklahoma City’s loss to Cleveland, Gilgeous-Alexander emphasized the team’s focus on maintaining its high level of play.
“Losing twice in a month-and-a-half I’ll take, no matter what stage the games are on,” Gilgeous-Alexander said.
Gilgeous-Alexander’s ability to get to the rim and draw fouls remains a key component of the Thunder’s success, as he ranks among the league leaders in free throw attempts per game. The Knicks, like all NBA defenses, will have their hands full dealing with him in this matchup. With Towns anchoring New York’s defense, the Thunder star should get to this spot to take his usual pull-ups in the gaps while finding chances to get to the rim.
Gilgeous-Alexander has played at a high level, and the Thunder leans on him heavily in tough matchups. He will have plenty of chances to rack up over 38.5 points and assists combined if he plays well. Expect the All-Star guard to step up as Oklahoma City looks to bounce back at Madison Square Garden.
The Crown Is Yours: Sign up for DraftKings and experience the ultimate host for games and betting experiences!
All odds provided by DraftKings Sportsbook and all odds subject to change.