The New York Knicks are building momentum, and they hope to keep the Toronto Raptors, whose nine-game winning streak is now history, in the loss column.

Catch the game tomorrow, December 1st, at 7:00 AM, Manila time.

AWAY: Toronto Raptors (14-6, 7-4 ROAD)

Projected starting five:

  • Immanuel Quickley
  • Brandon Ingram
  • Gradey Dick
  • Scottie Barnes
  • Jakob Poeltl

The Raptors enter this matchup trying to regroup after having their nine-game winning streak snapped, and the challenge only ramps up as they play the second night of a back-to-back. Still, this team has shown confidence, and tomorrow presents a perfect chance to spark another run.

The offensive core of Scottie Barnes, Brandon Ingram, and Immanuel Quickley continues to mesh well, giving Toronto multiple creators and shot-makers who can initiate sets in different ways. But what really defines this group is its defense – the Raptors remain a top-four team in both points allowed and defensive rating, showing a commitment to structure and discipline that travels well, even in tough environments.

The absence of RJ Barrett, who is likely still out with a knee injury, removes a valuable wing scorer and secondary playmaker. That puts added pressure on the remaining perimeter group to maintain rhythm throughout the game. In the frontcourt, Jakob Poeltl and Toronto’s big-man rotation face one of their toughest assignments of the season in Karl-Anthony Towns. Keeping Towns out of deep post position and limiting his pick-and-pop threes will be crucial if the Raptors want to keep this one within reach late.

HOME: New York Knicks (12-6, 9-1 HOME)

Projected starting five:

  • Jalen Brunson
  • Miles McBride
  • Josh Hart
  • Mikal Bridges
  • Karl-Anthony Towns

The Knicks enter this contest riding a three-game winning streak, and they haven’t just been winning – they’ve been winning with force, outscoring opponents by an average of 16.6 points. This recent stretch reflects a roster that is fully in sync. Jalen Brunson continues to set the tone as the primary scorer and late-clock option, while Karl-Anthony Towns has settled comfortably into his role as the No. 2 scoring threat and interior anchor. Complementing them are Josh Hart and Mikal Bridges, two high-energy wings who provide versatility, rebounding, timely cuts, and just enough shot-making to keep defenses honest. OG Anunoby remains sidelined as he recovers from injury, but New York has managed to maintain structure on both ends.

Miles McBride has given the Knicks serviceable minutes in his spot-duty role, offering steady defense and simple, mistake-free offense. NY ranks fifth in points and third in offensive rating – an evidence of how well their system is functioning. Their defense sits in the middle of the pack, and tightening that up becomes essential against a Raptors team that moves the ball, pressures the paint, and rarely beats itself. If New York can keep its defensive focus sharp, it has a strong chance of extending its winning streak.

PICKS

Spread: Knicks (-7.5)

Over/Under: Over (232.5)