The stakes and pressure are increasing with each passing NBA playoff game. The Knicks and Heat face a crucial Game 4 tonight. Although not technically a must-win for the Heat, the Knicks are down 2-1 and have to avoid falling behind 3-1 to keep their playoff hopes alive. The game is in Miami, making the Knicks’ task even more challenging, and there are several betting angles worth considering. Let’s get into the best NBA bet for Monday, May 8.
Sharp NBA Bet: Massive Knicks-Heat Game 4
The Knicks are 4.5-point underdogs, and it is wiser to take the points in this game. The total is a modest 206.5, so the game projects to remain close throughout. Despite their dismal performance in Game 3, the Knicks have some positives to take into this game. They shot poorly from the field and beyond the arc in that one, and they allowed the Heat to outperform them from the free-throw line. The Knicks will need a better effort from stars Julius Randle and Jalen Brunson to have a chance against the Heat. Additionally, they will need to dominate the glass, which is an area where they can have an advantage over Miami.
For the Heat, Jimmy Butler is leading the charge despite being limited by an ankle sprain. Without Tyler Herro and Victor Oladipo, the Miami backcourt is stretched thin, and the team must rely on its methodical pace, excellent coaching and timely 3-point shooting. In Game 3, the Heat struggled with their shooting but made up for it on the offensive glass, which is not easy to do against the Knicks.
New York needs to improve in almost every area of its game after a poor showing in Game 3. The Knicks have advantages in rebounding and are unlikely to shoot any worse than they did in the previous game. With this one expected to be close from start to finish, taking the Knicks +4.5 is the best play.
Ben’s Sharp NBA Bet: Knicks +4.5 (-108, FanDuel)
