Atlanta Hawks - New York Knicks predictions and free betting tips [16/11/2023]

The New York Knicks and Atlanta Hawks are set to battle it out at State Farm Arena this Thursday morning in GMT format. I'm placing my bets on the Knicks' victory.

Atlanta Hawks

The Hawks have posted impressive results, winning 7 out of their last 9 matches, including triumphs over the Detroit Pistons. They recently clinched a victory with a score of 126:120 on an away turf where Dejounte Murray played a pivotal role with 36 points and 10 assists. In another match, where injured guard Trae Young was absent, Murray again stepped in to secure a victory scoring 32 points.

The Hawks display high efficiency in the attack, standing 4th in the NBA with an average of 120.9 points per game and showcasing 47.4% field goal accuracy. However, defensively, they struggle, allowing opponents to register 48.6% field goals and 35.5% 3-pointers. De'Andre Hunter, now frequently playing at power forward after John Collins' transition to Utah Jazz, averages 14 points and 4.1 rebounds. Young's status remains questionable given his shooting inconsistency this season. Murray, on the other hand, average 22.9 points and 6 assists with 50% shooting accuracy, becoming a key player in Young's absence.

New York Knicks

The Knicks, having to their credit 3 consecutive home wins against Charlotte, San Antonio and Los Angeles Clippers, entered the match against Boston Celtics in good form. However, they suffered a defeat with a score of 98:114, that broke their winning streak. In the match, Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle turned in solid performances with 26 and 25 points respectively. Josh Hart contributed, racking up 16 points, 9 rebounds and 3 assists. However, team efficiency was low, with 41% field goal accuracy and 15 out of 35 3-pointers. The Knicks missed guard RJ Barrett due to a migraine, a significant loss considering his average tally of 22.6 points per game and 50% 3-point field goal percentage.

Boston Celtics, in turn, dominated the game, particularly thanks to Jason Tatum, who brought the team 35 points and 7 assists. The Celtics showcased high efficiency, achieving 51% field goal accuracy and 44% 3-pointers.

Despite strong games from Brunson and Randle, the team lacks consistency in the attack. They stand last in the NBA in field goal percentage (42.8%) and 12th in the number of 3-point field goals (36.3%). Meanwhile, their defence remains one of their strong points, standing 2nd in average points allowed per game (104.3), 16th in defence against field goals (46.2%), and 17th in defence against 3-point field goals (35.3%).

Prediction

In the run-up to the match between the Knicks and Hawks, there is uncertainty regarding the participation of key players from both teams. The Knicks are awaiting word on RJ Barrett, whose health status raises questions, while the Hawks may be without Trae Young due to personal issues. Nonetheless, considering the Knicks' current form, which exhibited good results until the defeat by the Celtics, I believe they can pull off a victory.