Early marketplace activity has pushed the Hornets up to being 8-point home favorites against the Knicks. At that price, I'm going to get involved with New York on a buy-low basis.

And, no, I'm not expecting Julius Randle - the Knicks' best player - to suit up. He's doubtful with a quad injury.

Randle didn't play in the Knicks' 117-111 home loss to the Hawks last night. That loss likely did in the Knicks' already forlorn playoff hopes putting them six games behind Atlanta to reach the play-in tournament with only 10 games to play.

Charlotte is hot, winning seven of its last nine games, including the past five.

So why get involved with the Knicks even at a buy-low, inflated number?

I actually expect the Knicks to perform well. The pressure of making the playoffs is now off them. Tom Thibodeau is coaching for his job. Obi Toppin should make his fourth start of the season with much to prove. RJ Barrett continues to play well averaging 25.4 points in his last five games.

The Knicks have covered each of the last six times they've been a road underdog.

The Hornets are not a good home spread team. They are 4-12-1 ATS during their past 17 home games, including 2-6 ATS the last eight times as home chalk.