Game Day: Knicks vs. Pelicans, 4/18/21

The Knicks head home looking for a six-game win streak, facing the same team that they won their fourth straight against on Wednesday. Can they contain Zion again and keep the magic going?

The Knicks are back home to MSG, and the vibes are immaculate.

I don’t have too much to say about this game as far as a preview goes… the Knicks just faced these guys the other day! You know the story! But I’d strongly recommend reading Benjy’s great piece on Julius Randle and Zion Williamson’s usage in the first meeting.

There are two somewhat notable developments this time, though — Lonzo Ball is back for the Pels, meaning they’re not COMPLETELY devoid of shooting (he shoots 40% on catch-and-shoot threes this year), and Alec Burks remains out for the Knicks due to health and safety protocols, meaning the Knicks are without their fourth quarter hero from Wednesday’s matchup.

That said, Julius Randle is erupting, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he either goes for 50 points or a 25-point triple-double today, depending on if the Pels decide to send single or double coverage at him.

Game’s at 1 PM today on stupid ESPN again. Comment here or follow us on Twitter!