Los Angeles Lakers vs New York Knicks Head-to-Head

Lakers built their historical edge pre-1996, winning 143 of 256 decided meetings (56%). In the modern era they are 36-24 against each other (60% Lakers). The teams have met in 5 NBA Finals, making this one of the most championship-tested rivalries in league history. Games average a 9.9-point winning margin, with the largest decided blowout coming via Lakers' 33-point win. Across the last 20 decided meetings Lakers hold a 11-9 edge, suggesting the modern balance leans their way. The 1950s produced the deepest sample with 91 recorded meetings, more than any other decade in the series and the era that anchors most of its statistical character. Their first recorded meeting fell in 1948, so the rivalry has now spanned 78 seasons of league history. Most recent result: Lakers won 110-97 on Mar 8, 2026. Through the 2020s Lakers have led 9-5 between the teams.