Brendan O’Sullivan dives into his pick and prediction for the New York Knicks vs. Atlanta Hawks matchup on Monday.
The Knicks and Hawks are set to play their third and final matchup of the season. These teams split the first two games.
Atlanta is an 1.5-point favorite and -110 on the moneyline, while New York is -110 on DraftKings Sportsbook. The over/under is set at 229.5 points.
Here’s a preview, prediction and pick for Monday’s Knicks vs. Hawks matchup.
Knicks vs. Hawks prediction, preview
If you told me in October that a Hawks team without Trae Young would be favored against a healthy Knicks team in April, I wouldn’t believe you. The Knicks were considered a favorite to make the Eastern Conference Finals and NBA Finals thanks to a slew of injuries around the conference.
Instead, New York is stumbling into the postseason with a similar record to last year’s squad. There’s major questions surrounding Karl-Anthony Towns’ usage and how he best fits within Mike Brown’s offense. The team looks great against weak teams like Memphis and Chicago, but then struggles against playoffs squads like Oklahoma City, Houston and Charlotte.
Atlanta is a serious riser, holding a 45-33 record overall. The Hawks are 19-3 since the All-Star break and are the fifth seed in the East as it stands. They haven’t locked in a playoff spot yet, but they’ll be in the Play-In Tournament at worst.
With Young no longer on the team, the rivalry isn’t as intense. Still, this game holds a lot of weight as the Knicks attempt to enter the playoffs on the right foot.
Knicks vs. Hawks pick, best bet
There are too many concerns with the Knicks at this point of the season. Meanwhile, the Hawks are surging and are looking to clinch a playoff spot.
Atlanta is equally as good at home vs. on the road, but New York is far worse away from Madison Square Garden. Besides recent play, the Knicks’ struggles away from home will be the difference here.
Best bet: Atlanta Hawks ML (-110)