Thu Mar 20 02:20:00 UTC 2025: ## Knicks, Despite Brunson Injury, Favored to Beat Tanking Spurs

**New York, NY** – The New York Knicks, currently navigating the absence of All-NBA guard Jalen Brunson due to an ankle injury, are favored to win their upcoming game against the San Antonio Spurs. Despite missing Brunson, the Knicks have shown resilience, winning three of their last five games. Mikal Bridges has stepped up significantly, averaging 23.4 points per game on over 63% shooting from the field and 47% from three-point range since Brunson’s injury.

The Spurs, meanwhile, are in a full-blown tank after season-ending injuries to De’Aaron Fox and Victor Wembanyama. Their defensive struggles are particularly noteworthy, ranking dead last in defensive rating over their last ten games. This poor defense, coupled with their recent struggles (six losses in their last ten games), makes them heavy underdogs against the Knicks, even on their home court.

While the Knicks’ offense may be somewhat hampered by Brunson’s absence, the addition of Deuce McBride to the starting lineup has bolstered their defense. The team’s overall performance remains strong, placing them in the top half of the NBA in net rating over their last ten games. Conversely, the Spurs’ net rating is among the ten worst in the league over the same period.

Sports analysts predict a comfortable Knicks victory, with a projected point spread of -8. The Spurs’ rookie guard, Stephone Castle, who is averaging 20.7 points per game over his last 11 contests, is expected to be a key player to watch for San Antonio. However, the overall outlook points towards a Knicks win, leveraging the scoring prowess of Bridges and the defensive advantages against a struggling Spurs team. The game is set for Wednesday.

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