The Los Angeles Clippers have won two in a row, first against the Toronto Raptors and then beating the battered Los Angeles Lakers. Clippers Head Coach Ty Lue has stated that he plans to limit Kawhi Leonard’s minutes on the court to prevent injuries. With Leonard’s minutes limited, the Clippers will have their work cut out for them on Sunday.
Both of these teams have been incredible against the spread, making this one of the tougher games to pick on Sunday. Can the Knicks beat the 45-22 Los Angeles Clippers? Or will Los Angeles snag another win at home before heading out on the road?
With Kawhi’s minutes limited, New York has a chance to capitalize here
Kawhi Leonard has told the media he feels “ready to go” however, Head Coach Ty Lue continues to limit his minutes. Although this is mainly to save Kawhi’s health for the NBA Playoffs, these limited minutes benefit the New York Knicks. Julius Randle has brought life back to a Knicks team that was one of the worst teams in the NBA just one season ago. On Sunday, he’ll be able to prove once again that he’s the current face of the franchise with a win over the Clippers.
Against the spread, you have to consider that the New York Knicks are one of the best teams in the NBA. Taking them at the sportsbook has been a no-brainer, especially in situations where they’re the favorite. However, they come in as 7.5-point underdogs, as underdogs, their record isn’t nearly as impressive at 18-25.
The Clippers will look to claim one more win at home before heading to Toronto
The Los Angeles Clippers will finish their regular season with a four-game road stretch but before they do that, they can grab another home game against the Knicks. Their only struggle will be not having Kawhi Leonard in full capacity. The good news is that the players around him have stepped up and performed while serving this limited role. After a big win over the Toronto Raptors, the Clippers were able to claim a victory over the Los Angeles Lakers as well. The last time the Clippers faced the Knicks, they claimed a 129-115 victory.
The Clippers have a great record against the spread as well and have an incredible 40-17 record as favorites. The point spread in this game is less than it was in late January when they played the Knicks which gives you another reason to lean toward Los Angeles here.
Best bet on Sunday afternoon? Los Angeles Clippers -7.5
Even with the Clippers limiting Kawhi Leonard’s minutes, Los Angeles is in good shape to win this one here. The last time these two faced, the Clippers dealt with the Knicks offense well and limited Julius Randle’s output. Look for them to repeat the same recipe here, win their final regular-season home game, and cover the spread, Clippers -7.5.