Jim Feist – Sports Handicapper

The Cornell Big Red are set to face the Yale Bulldogs in a pivotal Ivy League matchup on Friday, February 21, 2025, at 7:00 PM ET at the John J. Lee Amphitheater in New Haven, Connecticut. This game carries significant weight in the conference standings, with Yale aiming to maintain their perfect Ivy League record and Cornell seeking to improve their position. Yale enters the contest with a 16-6 overall record and an unblemished 9-0 mark in Ivy League play. The Bulldogs have been dominant at home, boasting a 10-game winning streak at the John J. Lee Amphitheater. Their success has been largely attributed to a high-powered offense, averaging 85.0 points per game, and a defense that allows 75.5 points per game. Notably, Yale ranks fourth nationally in three-point shooting percentage, a testament to their offensive efficiency. Cornell, with a 13-9 overall record and a 5-4 standing in conference play, faces a challenging task, especially given their recent three-game losing streak. The Big Red's offense averages 75.5 points per game, but their defense has been a concern, conceding an average of 85.0 points per game. Historically, Cornell has struggled against Yale, particularly on the road, where they have lost their last 10 games at the John J. Lee Amphitheater. Yale Bulldogs: Senior guard John Poulakidas leads the Bulldogs with his exceptional three-point shooting, contributing significantly to Yale's offensive prowess. Complementing him is senior guard Bez Mbeng, known for his defensive tenacity and playmaking abilities. Forward Nick Townsend has been a reliable presence in the paint, recently leading the team with 20 points in their decisive 84-57 victory over Princeton. Cornell Big Red: Senior guard Nazir Williams stands out as a key contributor, having surpassed the 1,000-point milestone in his collegiate career. His leadership and scoring ability are vital for Cornell's offensive strategy. In their recent game against Dartmouth, guard Cooper Noard led the team with 10 points, indicating the need for a more robust offensive output to challenge Yale effectively. Yale is laying a lot of points, however they have the offense to cover these big numbers - especially at home where they have been so dominant. I'll take Yale here on Friday and lay the number.

The New York Knicks (37-18) are set to face the Cleveland Cavaliers (45-10) on Friday, February 21, 2025, at 7:00 PM EST at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland. The Cavaliers currently lead the Eastern Conference with a 44-11 record, riding a five-game winning streak. They are coming off a win over the Brooklyn Nets on Thursday, 110-97, as a 12 point favorite. The Knicks, holding the third spot in the conference at 37-18, have also been in strong form, winning five of their last six games, including a win on Thursday at home over the Bulls in OT, 113-111. New York Knicks: Jalen Brunson leads the team with 26.1 points per game, ranking 9th in the NBA, and contributes 7.5 assists per game. Karl-Anthony Towns adds 24.7 points and 13.4 rebounds per game, providing a strong inside presence. Cleveland Cavaliers: Donovan Mitchell averages 23.9 points and 4.8 assists per game, while Darius Garland adds 21.6 points and 6.7 assists per game, forming a dynamic backcourt duo. Both teams are on the second night of back-to-back games, which may test their depth and endurance. The Knicks though had to go the extra five minutes of OT to beat the Bulls and they play on road here tonight. The Cavaliers' home-court advantage and recent momentum position them as favorites. I'll take the Cavs minus the points on Friday.

The Memphis Grizzlies (36-19) are set to face the Orlando Magic (28-29) on Friday, February 21, 2025, at 7:00 PM EST at the Kia Center in Orlando. The Grizzlies have been strong this season, boasting a 36-19 record and leading the league in pace with 103.5 possessions per game. They rank 5th in field goal percentage at 48.6% and 6th in defensive rating at 111.8. However, they've faced challenges recently, dropping four of their last five games. They played last night and lost at Indiana, 113-127. The Magic, with a 28-29 record, have shown resilience, winning four of their past five games, inlcuding a game last night at Atlanta in a 114-108 win. Despite ranking 29th in offensive rating at 108.8 and 30th in three-point shooting at 30.6%, they've managed to find ways to win. Memphis Grizzlies: Ja Morant continues to be a pivotal player, leading the team's high-paced offense. His playmaking and scoring abilities are crucial for the Grizzlies' success. Orlando Magic: Paolo Banchero has been impressive, recently recording 36 points, 11 rebounds, and five assists against the Hawks. Both teams played last night, but the Grizzlies had to travel and that always makes this spot more difficult. Plus Orland has been playing very well compared to the Grizzlies. I'll take the points at home with the Magic tonight.