NBA on TNT Preview: Two meaty matchups (Knicks again!) are slated for Tuesday Night

Jan 31, 2023 - 11:04 AM

New York Knicks at Los Angeles Lakers" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/M53h-LVfEecXnxi-YxDcEkx4E10=/0x54:3720x2147/1920x1080/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/71924475/usa_today_17627404.0.jpg" />

Tuesday’s TNT doubleheader is less than 24 hours away, so prepare your gluttonous treats, basketball fanatics. There are two excellent games on the docket, starting with the Los Angeles Lakers (23-28) facing the New York Knicks (27-24)—the second time on TNT in two weeks!—and then the New Orleans Pelicans (26-25) peck at the Denver Nuggets (34-16).

These games should be simply riveting late into their fourth quarters. Expect about five hours of unforgettable sports television. If you are inclined to place the occasional, responsible wager on sporting events such as these, DraftKings would love your business.

Game One Details

Fixture: Los Angeles Lakers (23-28) at the New York Knicks (27-24)
Date and Time: Tuesday, January 31, 2023, 7:30 pm ET, TNT
Venue: Madison Square Garden, NYC.

The Los Angeles Lakers (23-28), led by a rested LeBron James, face the New York Knicks (27-24) at Madison Square Garden in tonight’s first game. New York recently won consecutive games against the Cavaliers and Celtics, but lost to the Nets. LA is on a road trip and just dropped two straight, in Boston and Brooklyn. LeBron and Anthony Davis rested their rears last night to be ready for the bright lights at MSG.

LeBron, averaging 30.2 points, 8.5 boards, and 7.1 dimes this season, has called MSG his favorite arena but hasn’t played there in three years. He’ll square off against Julius Randle, who leads the Knicks with 24.7 points, 10.8 rebounds, and four assists. LeBron is dealing with “really significant soreness” in his left foot which, according to NBA.com, will be checked this morning. Pardon my skepticism. LeBron has spent enough time in Hollywood to learn the craft of storytelling, and an injury adds dramatic depth to the storyline.

LA’s squad has a fast pace but ranks 19th for offense and 18th for defense. They’re weak from deep, ranking 24th in 3-pt attempts and making only 34%, which is a relief because we know about New York’s perimeter defense. . . .

This is New York’s second TNT game in two weeks. Game starts at 7:30 pm. I’d bet the Knicks. Expect a proper preview here at Posting & Toasting later today.

Outcome Odds
Spread: Knicks -2
O/U: N/A
Lakers ML: +105

Odds up to date as of Monday evening from DraftKings Sportsbook

Game Two Details

Fixture: New Orleans Pelicans (26-25) at the Denver Nuggets (34-16).
Date and Time: Tuesday, January 31, 2023, 10:00 pm ET, TNT
Venue: Ball Arena, Denver, CO.

The New Orleans Pelicans are crawling on their collective belly, trying to break a savage eight-game losing streak. That’s a tough task against the Denver Nuggets. The Nugs are feisty against Western Conference, where they have a 25-10 record.

These two clubs are colliding for the third time this season. When last they met, the Nuggets come out on top with a 99-98 victory—Nikola Jokic led the charge with 25 points, while CJ McCollum chipped in 20 points for the losers. When it comes to heavy hitters, Jokic is the heaviest, averaging almost a triple-double with 25.1 points, 10.9 rebounds, and 9.9 assists. And don’t forget about Jamal Murray, either, shooting 18.4 points per game over the last 10 for Denver. Brandon Ingram missed Sunday’s game in Milwaukee, but should be back in uniform tonight. Not that it matters. Denver wins by 20, and NOLA’s losing streak reaches nine.

Outcome Odds
Spread: Nuggets -7.5
O/U: N/A
Pelicans ML: +260

Odds up to date as of Monday evening from DraftKings Sportsbook