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The New York Knicks will try to continue their push for a playoff spot as they host the Atlanta Hawks at Madison Square Garden.
The Knicks (12-13, 11-5 home) haven`t been at their best lately, losing 6 of their last 8 games. However, they had some serious injury problems during that stretch, particularly with their star Porzingis being in and out. That won`t be the case here, as Porzingis is ready to go, and the Knicks will hope to build on their good home record.
Atlanta (6-19, 3-10 away) is in full rebuilding mode, and any wins they will get this season will mostly be circumstantial. The Hawks did win 3 of their last 7 games and seem to be on the up, apparently learning to play together after a pathetic start to the season. Last time out, Atlanta defeated the Orlando Magic by 7 points at home.
Bet on Knicks vs Hawks and claim your 100% (100 Eur) welcome bonus at Ohmbet!Team news: The Knicks will probably miss their second best player, Hardaway Jr, who is questionable, and not expected to play. The Hawks will miss 3 key rotation pieces in the form of Muscala, Dedmon and Collins.
Two weeks ago the Knicks lost by 12 points in Atlanta, but that was kind of a freak game, with NY completely collapsing in the second half after dominating the first, not being able to hit any shots, which eventually led to very poor defense.
Now, at home, and against a shorthanded Hawks side, the Knicks should be able to get revenge and claim a very important win in their race for the playoffs.
While New Your will probably be without Hardaway Jr, his absence will be less than the combined absences of Collins, Muscala and Dedmon for the Hawks. Atlanta will have a really tough time playing without those three guys, who always bring high energy.
Those absences will also leave the Hawks vulnerable in the frontcourt, which will be a huge problem considering that Atlanta will have to go against Kristaps Porzingis here. Kanter is also fit for the Knicks, so there will be even more issues for Atlanta under the rim.
All in all, the Knicks should own this game. I do see them covering the point spread, but I wouldn`t be shocked if they play a mediocre game and barely edge it. Neither team is very good, but NY should have too much for Atlanta here.
As such, I will avoid the handicap line, and my tip will be a NY Knicks win. I view this as a calm and safe Sunday night bet, which will hopefully follow common logic and end up being a winner. Look for a dominant performance by Kristaps Porzingis, and any odds above 1.40 look good to me here for the simple win. Prediction: NY Knicks – Atlanta Hawks 115 – 101.
Pick: Knicks
Odds: 1.48 @ 1xBet
Stake: 8
Possible profit: 3.84
Event date: 10 December
