In a highly anticipated crosstown rivalry showdown, the Brooklyn Nets are scheduled to clash with the New York Knicks on Wednesday night as part of NBA Rivals Week 2026. The matchup is expected to be a competitive one at Madison Square Garden, with tipoff scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET.
The Nets have lost their last two games, including a recent 126-117 loss to the Phoenix Suns, and enter the game struggling with a 12-29 record. Their performance has been poor, with seven losses in their last eight games. Meanwhile, the Knicks, who boast a record of 25 wins and 18 losses, are also facing challenges after losing four straight. The most recent setback was a 114-97 loss to the Dallas Mavericks on Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Historically, the Knicks have had the upper hand in the rivalry with the Nets, leading the series 118-112 all-time.
Notably, the Knicks have dominated recent matchups, winning the last 12 meetings between these teams. As a result, oddsmakers have New York as an 11.5-point favorite for this game, with the over/under set at a total of 220.5 points.
For bettors, this game presents an interesting scenario. The SportsLine Projection Model has shown impressive results, generating over $10,000 in returns on $100 players for top-rated NBA picks over the past eight seasons. The model currently has an impressive 35-15 record on top-rated spread picks entering Week 14 of the season.
In terms of player performance, the model simulates Nets vs. Knicks matchups 10,000 times and shows a preference for the over by total points (220.5). In their last meeting at Madison Square Garden in November, they scored a total of 232 points. Additionally, both teams rank in the bottom four of the league in 3-point percentage, highlighting their scoring potential.
The Knicks will be at full strength without any players on the injury report, but six players are expected to score in double figures, including two who are expected to score over 20 points. Meanwhile, Brooklyn will return Cam Thomas, who was absent in the last matchup. Thomas is an integral part of the Nets’ offense and is one of five players expected to contribute at least 10 points.
Fans are excited to see if the Knicks can continue their winning streak against their rivals, or if the Nets can turn the tide in this fierce city rivalry. Bettors and fans alike will be eagerly watching this game unfold. For those looking for expert insight, detailed picks and stats, SportsLine provides a wealth of information on how to approach this thrilling matchup.