NBA Odds: Knicks-Mavericks prediction, odds and pick

The New York Knicks are six games behind the Boston Celtics for first place in the Atlantic Standings and currently occupy the sixth seed in Eastern Conference. The Knicks lost to the 76ers on Christmas Day. Dallas has been on the winning side of things of late with three consecutive wins.

The Knicks are on a losing streak. They lost to the Raptors and Philadelphia recently. Their defensive play has been lacking recently and they need to improve it if they want to win. The Knicks will have to rely heavily on R.J. Barrett and newcomer Jalen Brunson to score points. Brunon's injury may affect their chances. Julius Randle will play more if he can score more.

The Mavericks are one of the most exciting young teams in the NBA. Luka Doncic is averaging 32.8 PPG in his fifth full season at the league level. Christian Wood scored 30 points on 71% shooting against the Knicks on Sunday. The defense has been the catalyst for Dallas success this year. The team is giving up the fifth-fewest points in all of basketball. They will try to force turnovers and stay out of foul trouble.

Both teams have identical records. The Mavericks have been playing well on their home floor.