New York Knicks vs Los Angeles Lakers Picks and Predictions for Sunday March 8 2026

By: Kim Smith Published 03/08/2026, 01:10 AM ET

The New York Knicks travel to Los Angeles to take on the Lakers on Sunday afternoon at crypto.com Arena. Tip-off is scheduled for 3:30 PM with the game nationally televised on ABC. This matchup features two teams in solid playoff position in their respective conferences and should provide plenty of entertainment for basketball fans. At the time of this writing the odds were not released. Be sure to check out our free NBA picks for more daily predictions and betting insights.

Knicks Bringing Offensive Momentum West

The New York Knicks enter this matchup with a 41-23 overall record and a 17-14 record on the road. New York has been one of the stronger teams in the Eastern Conference this season and has recently been playing excellent basketball. In their last five games, the Knicks have recently won over Denver 142-103, recently lost to Oklahoma City 103-100, recently won over Toronto 111-95, recently won over San Antonio 114-89, and recently won over Milwaukee 127-98.

The Knicks are averaging 116.8 points per game while allowing 110.6 points per contest. They shoot 47 percent from the field and have been strong on the boards with 46.0 rebounds per game. New York also moves the ball extremely well, averaging 27.1 assists per game while contributing defensively with 4.1 blocks and 8.1 steals per contest.

One of the biggest strengths for the Knicks this season has been their balanced offensive attack. Their combination of scoring, rebounding, and ball movement allows them to generate quality offensive possessions. When New York is pushing the tempo and creating open shots, they become a difficult team for opponents to slow down.

Subscribe Now

I authorize Picks And Parlays to send me promotional emails

I understand that I can unsubscribe at any time. I have read and accepted the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy. I consent that Picks And Parlays may use third-party services to process my data.

Terms & Conditions

Lakers Looking to Protect Home Court

The Los Angeles Lakers come into this matchup with a 38-25 overall record and a 19-12 mark at home. The Lakers have been strong offensively throughout the season and have shown the ability to score efficiently against a variety of opponents. In their last five games, Los Angeles has recently won over Indiana 128-117, recently lost to Denver 120-113, recently won over New Orleans 110-101, recently won over Sacramento 128-104, and recently won over Golden State 129-101.

The Lakers average 115.8 points per game while allowing 115.3 points per game defensively. Los Angeles has been extremely efficient offensively, shooting 50 percent from the field. They also average 25.5 assists per contest and contribute defensively with 4.2 blocks and 8.2 steals per game.

Offensive efficiency has been a major strength for the Lakers this season. Their 50 percent field goal shooting indicates a team that is consistently generating high-quality shots. When the Lakers are scoring efficiently and moving the ball effectively, they can be extremely difficult to defend on their home floor.

New York Knicks vs Los Angeles Lakers Pick

Los Angeles Lakers Moneyline

This matchup features two strong offensive teams, but the Lakers may have a slight advantage playing at home. Los Angeles has been particularly efficient offensively this season, shooting 50 percent from the field, which gives them the ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities.

While the Knicks have been playing excellent basketball recently, the Lakers’ home-court advantage and efficient offense could make the difference. If Los Angeles continues to shoot the ball well and maintain their offensive rhythm, they should be able to secure the win in this matchup.

New York Knicks vs Los Angeles Lakers Total Pick

Over #

I like the over in this matchup because both teams are capable of scoring at a high level. The Knicks average nearly 117 points per game, while the Lakers average nearly 116 points per contest.

Both teams have also been involved in several high-scoring games recently, which suggests that the pace could be fairly quick. If both offenses find their rhythm early, this game could easily turn into a high-scoring battle.

Final Score Prediction: Los Angeles Lakers 121, New York Knicks 117

This prediction was written before the completion of game play on Saturday.