Celtics vs. Knicks Prediction and Odds for Saturday, November 5th (Bet Over)

The Celtics, known for the defense, have taken a step back this season as Robert Williams III recovers from a knee injury.

Will Boston's defense find its form on Saturday night against the New York Knicks? The Knicks offense has checked in around the middle of the pack, but has the talent to exploit any defense with Jalen Brunson shining in his lead guard role. The offseason acquisition is averaging 19 points and nearly seven assists for New York. Who has the edge at Madison Square Garden?

We have the odds and a play on this Atlantic Division meeting:

Celtics vs. Knicks Odds, Spread and Total

Celtics vs. Knicks Prediction and Pick

The Celtics defense is far from the elite level we came to expect last season, 18th in points allowed per 100 possessions. However, the offense has made up for that as the team is fifth in points scored per 100 possessions and are protecting the ball, turning it over at the sixth lowest rate.

The Knicks defense leaves some to be desired and could be without Mitchell Robinson, who left Friday night's game with a knee injury. Robinson is the anchor in the middle of the New York defense and this can open up the paint for Jayson Tatum to stay hot. The Celtics forward is averaging north of 30 points per game on the year.

New York's offense has been up-and-down this season, but with the Celtics leaky defense this year without their own big man in Williams, I expect Brunson to facilitate and create good looks for the team. The Celtics are on the second half of a back-to-back and are fresh off of allowing 119 points to the Bulls, the Knicks should be able to get their offense going with Brunson at the helm.

With all that being said, I like the over between a pair of teams that aren't as strong on defense as their coaches would have hoped this season.

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Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.