The Atlanta Hawks will take on the New York Knicks on Wednesday night.
Both teams have consistently had some high-scoring games since last season, and I anticipate another high-scoring affair in this matchup.
Don't forget to check ourĀ NBA betting pageĀ for the latest updates and info regarding betting on the league.
Game Preview
The Hawks and Knicks are preparing for their upcoming matchup, with the potential absence of Trae Young significantly impacting the Knicks' chances.
New York boasts a strong offensive lineup with six players averaging double figures, led by Jalen Brunson at 26 points per game.
The Knicks rely heavily on their starting five, with new addition Karl-Anthony Towns contributing 21.3 points and 12.5 rebounds.
Miles Bridges is a key defensive player for the Knicks, known for making crucial defensive plays; his performance often correlates with the team's success.
In their last outing, he had three steals against Detroit but struggled defensively in the loss to the Rockets.
Josh Hart adds depth to the team, averaging 13.8 points and nearly 9 rebounds per game, but needs to reduce turnovers for better team performance.
Overall, the Knicks' success hinges on their offensive consistency and defensive contributions, particularly from Bridges.
Trae Young is currently a game-time decision due to an injury that isn't serious but could benefit from rest against a tough defense.
Cody Zeller and DeāAndre Hunter are also dealing with injuries. Young leads the Hawks with an average of 23.9 points per game, though his scoring has dipped, partly due to a two-point performance against Boston.
Double-Double for Double O off the bench š¤š¤
18 PTS | 10 REB@BigO21_ x @UPS pic.twitter.com/9miMxRCu3o
— Atlanta Hawks (@ATLHawks) November 5, 2024
He also averages a career-high 11.0 assists, leading the league, making his potential absence significant for the team.
Jalen Johnson is emerging as a vital contributor, averaging a career-best 18.4 points and 10.0 rebounds, along with 5.1 assists. His strong play is essential for the Hawksā success.
Meanwhile, No. 1 overall pick Zaccharie Risacher is starting to engage more offensively, averaging 9.4 points. However, he struggles with a 32.9% shooting percentage and will need to gain confidence to improve his performance.
Seven points feels like a few too many for this home team, despite the uncertainty of not having Trae Young. I'd bet Hawks +7 at -110 odds in this one.
We want to ensure you maximize theĀ best sign-up bonusesĀ and currentĀ promotions. TheseĀ bonusesĀ can significantly increase yourĀ bankroll, allowing you to bet withĀ house money!
Total Points
The Knicks began this season with hopes of capturing a championship, but their defensive performance has noticeably declined.
While acquiring Towns has improved their spacing and offensive efficiency, his struggles to guard the rim have become apparent.
KAT SLAMā¼ļø@karltowns pic.twitter.com/kH3h16YP2i
— NEW YORK KNICKS (@nyknicks) November 5, 2024
In their recent loss to the Rockets, the Knicks were crushed on the boards, 50-39, and surrendered a staggering 62 points in the paint.
Currently, they sit at the bottom of the league in opponent two-point shooting percentage (61.2%) and rank 21st in points allowed in the paint (50.3).
On the other hand, the Hawks face their own set of challenges. However, with the rising star power forward Jalen Johnson and the strong center duo of Clint Capela and Onyeka Okongwu, they are able to score effectively in the interior.
The Hawks rank tied for seventh in the league with an average of 52.0 points in the paint per game, while they stand eighth in two-point shooting percentage (55.9%).
However, Atlanta has significant weaknesses on the defensive end and tends to play at a high tempo.
With Trae Young possibly out and injuries to Bogdan Bogdanovic and De'Andre Hunter, the Hawks may find it difficult to guard the perimeter.
They currently rank 27th in the league for defensive rating and are last in opponent three-point shooting percentage (39.8%), contributing to them allowing the third-most points per game (121.9).
In contrast, the Knicks are leading the league in three-point shooting percentage (41.4%) and hold the third-best offensive rating.
The best bet in this one is going to be Over 224.5 points at -105 odds.
Check ourĀ top sportsbook reviewsĀ for the best odds on your favorite NBA games before placing your bets.
-
EXCLUSIVE BONUS50% bonus up to $250Play Now
T&C apply, 18+, Play responsibly
-
50% bonus up to $1000Play Now
T&C apply, 18+, Play responsibly
-
EXCLUSIVE BONUS125% up to $2,500Play Now
T&C apply, 18+, Play responsibly
-
50% up to $500Play Now
T&C apply, 18+, Play responsibly
-
100% up to $1,000Play Now
T&C apply, 18+, Play responsibly