Knicks Rally to Take Game 1 of NBA Finals Against Spurs

The New York Knicks staged a remarkable comeback in Game 1 of the 2026 NBA Finals, overcoming a 14-point deficit in the second half to defeat the San Antonio Spurs 105-95 on Monday. Despite their strong start, San Antonio is favored to even the series. According to FanDuel, as of 12:45 p.m. ET on Friday, the Spurs have a -225 moneyline and are -6.5 (-106) favorites on a 215.5 total.

Game 2 Betting Odds and Predictions

If you’re looking to bet, consider New York +6, down to +5. Earlier, I tipped New York to win the title at +170 and by at least 1.5 games at +270 before the series began. Therefore, I’m avoiding betting on San Antonio as a favorite in this series.

Karl-Anthony Towns’ Influence

Karl-Anthony Towns gave credit to his late mother for the calm he experienced during Game 1. This emotional element played a crucial role in the thrilling victory for the Knicks.

Handicapping Game 2

The reason I’m hesitant to take points with the Knicks lies in the trend of betting on the home favorite in Game 2 after losing the first game. Generally, the home team bounces back strongly.

Instead of focusing on the point spread, I’ve decided to bet the UNDER 215.5 for Game 2, down to 212, based on specific factors.

Best Bet for Knicks-Spurs Game 2: UNDER 215.5

While some might consider betting the Over in Game 2 due to the zigzag theory, which suggests betting the opposite result after Game 1 went Under (217.5 total), other dynamics should be considered. This theory is an old NBA playoff betting strategy. The first game had a fast pace, yet it stayed Under due to strong defensive performances rather than poor shooting.

New York’s defense, with players like Mitchell Robinson tightly guarding Victor Wembanyama, proved effective. San Antonio forced Jalen Brunson into challenging shots. Both teams’ wings, such as New York’s Mikal Bridges, OG Anunoby, and Josh Hart, effectively defended the Spurs’ key players, Stephon Castle and PG De’Aaron Fox, by gripping the ball fiercely whenever Wembanyama attempted to drive.

This matchup suggests a series turning into strategic defenses rather than offensive explosiveness. The games might resemble tactical battles rather than high-scoring affairs. Spurs would benefit from slowing the pace, matching New York’s superior half-court offense.

Rebounding and Defense

Both teams demonstrated strong defensive rebounding, leading to fewer points from turnovers and second-chance opportunities. Low offensive turnover rates should further limit ‘easy buckets.’

I plan to place my bet on the Under closer to game time. The total may rise as many bettors tend to favor Overs, particularly in NBA Finals games involving popular teams like the Knicks. This shift typically happens an hour before the game begins.

Prediction: Knicks 107, Spurs 104

Player Prop: Consider betting on Spurs’ wing Stephon Castle scoring UNDER 16.5 points in Game 2.

Follow my updates on X at @Geoffery-Clark, and check out the OutKick Bets Podcast for more sports betting insights and commentary. Geoff Clark serves as OutKick’s sports betting analyst.