Atlanta Hawks vs. New York Knicks: Picks and Predictions (January 20, 2025)
Team Overviews
New York Knicks
The Knicks enter this matchup with a 27-16 record, aiming to rebound from recent challenges. Key players Karl-Anthony Towns and Josh Hart have been managing injuries but participated in practice on Sunday. Both are listed as questionable for the game, with Towns dealing with a right thumb issue and Hart nursing a left shoulder injury. Their potential return could bolster the Knicks' performance.
Atlanta Hawks
The Hawks, holding a 22-19 record, are on a three-game winning streak. Trae Young has been instrumental in their recent success, embracing his role as a key contributor. The team faces its own injury concerns, with Zacharie Risacher (adductor strain) and Larry Nance Jr. (hand) ruled out. Trae Young (Achilles) and Jalen Johnson (shoulder) are probable, which could impact the Hawks' depth.
Betting Odds and Trends
Spread: Knicks are favored by 6.5 points.
Over/Under: Set at 234.5 points.
Against the Spread (ATS) Records:
Hawks: 18-23 overall; 10-12 on the road; 13-9 against Eastern Conference teams.
Knicks: 21-21-1 overall; 10-10-1 at home; 15-14-1 against Eastern Conference teams.
Key Matchups
Trae Young vs. Jalen Brunson
Trae Young's dynamic playmaking and scoring ability will be tested against Jalen Brunson's defensive acumen. Containing Young is crucial for the Knicks to disrupt the Hawks' offensive rhythm.
Frontcourt Battle
The potential return of Karl-Anthony Towns adds a significant presence to the Knicks' frontcourt. His matchup against the Hawks' interior defense will be pivotal, especially considering the Hawks' injury-related absences.
Predictions
Spread: Given the Knicks' home-court advantage and the Hawks' injury concerns, the Knicks are likely to cover the 6.5-point spread. The potential return of Towns and Hart further strengthens this outlook.
Over/Under: Both teams have offensive capabilities, but considering the injury statuses and defensive adjustments, the total is likely to go UNDER 234.5 points.
Player Prop Bet: Trae Young Over 25.5 Points Despite the Knicks' defensive focus, Young's scoring prowess makes it probable for him to surpass this points total.
Final Score Prediction
New York Knicks 115, Atlanta Hawks 108
The Knicks' depth and home-court advantage position them to secure a victory. While the Hawks have momentum from their winning streak, the Knicks' potential roster reinforcements and strategic matchups give them the edge.
Best Bets Recap:
New York Knicks -6.5 (Spread)
UNDER 234.5 (Total Points)
Trae Young Over 25.5 Points (Player Prop)
Conclusion
This matchup features two competitive Eastern Conference teams with contrasting recent performances. The Knicks' resilience at home and potential return of key players provide them with an advantage. The Hawks will need to navigate their injury challenges and rely on Trae Young's leadership to contend effectively.
