Knicks vs. Rockets odds, prediction, spread, time: 2026 NBA picks for Saturday, Feb. 21 from proven model
CBS Sports
by
Daniel Kohn
February 21, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The New York Knicks and Houston Rockets face off in a crucial interconference NBA matchup on Saturday night at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks (35-21) enter the game as 3.5-point favorites, looking to extend their strong home record (21-8), while the Rockets (34-20) aim to bounce back after a recent loss. With an over/under of 219.5 points and high stakes for betting enthusiasts, this game promises excitement and strategic insights.
The Knicks have been formidable on their home court, but they come into this matchup after a disappointing 126-111 loss to the Detroit Pistons. Meanwhile, the Rockets, led by Kevin Durant's consistent scoring, are riding a wave of momentum from their victory over the Charlotte Hornets. Both teams' performances in recent games suggest a high-scoring contest, with the Knicks' Jalen Brunson and the Rockets' dynamic offense expected to dominate.
SportsLine's Projection Model predicts an Over (219.5 points) outcome, citing historical trends that show five of the Knicks' last seven games exceeding the point total. Additionally, the model highlights Durant's projected 23.2 points per game average and Brunson's potential for a standout performance with 25.4 points. This clash not only determines bragging rights but also influences playoff positioning for both teams.
For bettors, this matchup offers valuable insights, especially with the Rockets struggling against the spread (2-8 in their last 10 games) and the Knicks excelling at home (7-3 ATS in their last 10). The model's simulations reveal a nearly 60% success rate for an against-the-spread pick, making this game a must-watch event for NBA enthusiasts
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/21/2026