The NBA Cup quarterfinals tip off tonight when the New York Knicks visit the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena.
These two teams are on opposite trajectories, and my Knicks vs. Raptors props and NBA picks expect the visitors to stay hot on the road thanks to another strong performance from Jalen Brunson.
Best Knicks vs Raptors props
| Player | Pick |  |
|---|---|---|
 Jalen Brunson |
Over 28.5 points | -115 |
 Jakob Poeltl |
Under 8.5 rebounds | -130 |
| Tyler Kolek |
Over 2.5 assists | +140 |
Prop #1: Jalen Brunson Over 28.5 points
Jalen Brunson is averaging 28 points per game this season, and he's scored 29+ points in 12 of 21 games. That includes five of eight on the road and seven of his last 12 overall.
Brunson has averaged 29.8 points per game on the road compared to just 26.9 at home. This Toronto Raptors defense has slipped over its last seven games, making this a favorable matchup for Brunson.
The superstar guard has played some of his best games under the brightest lights, and I expect him to shine in the knockout round of the NBA Cup.
Prop #2: Jacob Poeltl Under 8.5 rebounds
The big man averaged 8.3 rebounds per game across 26.5 minutes over the first 15 games of the season. Over his last three games, he’s pulled down just six rebounds across 24.7 minutes. He’s failed to record nine rebounds in three straight.
Jacob Poeltl has been dealing with a back injury, and he hasn’t been playing at 100%. His minutes have fallen as Toronto has given more run to Sandro Mamukelashvili and rookie Collin Murray-Boyles.
The New York Knicks have allowed the fifth-fewest rebounds per game this season, and given Poeltl’s health, minutes, and recent play, I’ll take the Under on his rebound line.
Prop #3: Tyler Kolek Over 2.5 assists
With no Landry Shamet or Miles McBride, Tyler Kolek should operate as Jalen Brunson's top backup. Kolek has averaged 7.7 assists per 36 minutes in his career, and despite logging only 13.2 minutes per game this season, he's dished 3+ assists in seven of 19 games.
Kolek has finished with at least three assists in six of nine games in which he played at least 13 minutes.
Toronto’s struggling defense presents a favorable spot for Kolek to excel off the bench. With the potential for increased minutes, I like the plus-money odds on this assist line.
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Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
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