New York at Los Angeles

New York is building around 19-year-old forward Kevin Knox, who was named Eastern Conference Rookie of the Month for December. The Knicks have had two days to rest after a close loss at Denver, covering as a +13.5 dog. New York's other forward, Luke Kornet, scored 19 points against Denver and is averaging 18.7 points over the last three games. NBA underdogs of 3.5 to 9.5 points in non-conference games off three or more consecutive road losses are 33-8 ATS. They catch a break facing a depleted L.A. Lakers squad. LeBron James (strained left groin) will sit out his fifth consecutive game, losing three of four without him. Los Angeles forward Kyle Kuzma (18.3 points per game) has a lower back contusion and is questionable, while point guard Rajon Rondo (thumb injury) is still out. The Lakers are 3-12 ATS against the Eastern Conference, plus 3-9-1 ATS at home versus a team with a losing road record. Play New York.