Thu Mar 13 01:10:00 UTC 2025: ## Knicks Look to Extend Winning Streak Against Injury-Ridden Trail Blazers
**New York, NY** – The New York Knicks, riding high after their first victory since Jalen Brunson’s injury, are aiming to build momentum against a struggling Portland Trail Blazers team on Wednesday. Despite the absence of their star point guard, the Knicks are favored, with experts pointing to their strong defense and the Blazers’ mounting injury woes.
Analyst Kenny Ducey predicts a comfortable Knicks win, highlighting New York’s top-5 March defense and Portland’s offensive struggles. The Blazers are ranked eighth-worst offensively this month, struggling with both perimeter shooting and inside scoring due to injuries to key players Deandre Ayton and potentially Jerami Grant and Robert Williams.
Ducey’s best bet is the Knicks -4, emphasizing the Knicks’ ability to exploit Portland’s defensive weaknesses. He also suggests several player props: Josh Hart over 1.5 made threes (Hart has been consistently taking and making more three-pointers recently), and Karl-Anthony Towns over 2.5 assists (Towns is expected to facilitate more offense in Brunson’s absence).
While the Knicks’ offense has suffered without Brunson, their defensive strength and Portland’s depleted roster create a favorable matchup. The article highlights the Knicks’ commitment to three-point shooting, which should be effective against Portland’s poor perimeter defense. The analysis suggests that Karl-Anthony Towns will be a key offensive player for the Knicks, and Josh Hart will contribute significantly. The game offers a valuable opportunity for the Knicks to prove their resilience and further solidify their playoff position.
First Piper 