Knicks vs Hawks Odds, Picks and Predictions
- The Atlanta Hawks will take on the New York Knicks on Christmas Day at 12:00 pm EST
- Key players in COVID protocols make this game a challenge for bettors and oddsmakers alike
- Keep reading for odds, picks and a prediction for this game
The Atlanta Hawks (15-16) travel to Madison Square Garden this weekend to take on the New York Knicks (14-18) as part of the NBA’s Christmas Day slate. However, this game may be played without one of the most popular and electrifying players in the league, and both teams may be shorthanded due in large part to health and safety protocols.
This uncertainty has delayed some sportsbooks, including both DraftKings and FanDuel, from posting lines for this game until there is more clarity regarding who will and will not play.
Oddsmakers at Caesars Sportsbook have the Knicks listed as one-point favorites as of early Christmas eve.
Knicks vs Hawks Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York Knicks | -170 | -1 (-110) | Over 219 (-110) |
| Atlanta Hawks | +145 | +1 (-110) | Under 219 (-110) |
Odds as of December 24 via Caesars
A Disappointing Start
The Knicks and Hawks have both largely underperformed their preseason expectations roughly two months into the season.
The Hawks find themselves under .500 after a feel-good Cinderella playoff run last season, while the Knicks have so far been unable to capitalize on their development last year, and have failed to take that next step into true contention.
Kemba Walker, arguably New York’s biggest offseason acquisition, has not worked out as anticipated, with the veteran point guard being removed from the rotation by head coach Tom Thibodeau. He only earned playing time recently after Thibodeau’s hand was forced due to injuries and a lack of alternative options.
Bronx built. pic.twitter.com/HPvEsKeAJn
— NEW YORK KNICKS (@nyknicks) December 22, 2021
Injury and Protocol Uncertainties
The story of this game will largely be player absences, whether due to injuries, COVID health and safety protocols, or other factors.
Derrick Rose underwent successful surgery on his right ankle today at the Hospital for Special Surgery. He will be re-evaluated in eight weeks.
— NY_KnicksPR (@NY_KnicksPR) December 23, 2021
Derrick Rose and RJ Barrett headline the Knicks injury woes, while Trae Young headlines Atlanta’s injury report. Young entered COVID health and safety protocols on Dec. 19, and it is uncertain at this time whether he will be able to suit up for the Hawks on Christmas Day. Kevin Huerter, Lou Williams and Clint Capela have also been ruled out for the game for Atlanta, along with Nerlens Noel and Immanuel Quickley for New York.
Trae Young has been placed in the NBA's health and safety protocols, per @wojespn pic.twitter.com/XBk2hB8JCo
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) December 19, 2021
Randle’s Regression
Julius Randle leads the Knicks in scoring, although he has regressed somewhat this season. This regression comes in both counting stats and efficiency. Randle averaged 24.1 points, 10.2 rebounds and 6.0 assists last season. This year, those numbers are down across the board, coming in at 19.8 points, 9.8 rebounds and 5.1 assists.
This season, Randle has a field goal percentage of 42.1 percent, a three point percentage of 32.9 percent, and a free throw percentage of 78.6 percent. These numbers are likewise all down from last season, when Randle’s respective percentages were 45.6, 41.1, and 81.1.
That Ju fadeaway is smooth‼️ pic.twitter.com/apcJwWX9iJ
— NEW YORK KNICKS (@nyknicks) December 22, 2021
While these are still good numbers, this decline in both output and efficiency from their leading scorer will make it even harder for the Knicks to weather the loss of both Rose and Barrett, among others.
Opposite Philosophies
These two teams are built differently, one prioritizing an explosive offense and the other trying to win with a shutdown defense. The Knicks are ranked 13th in scoring defense, allowing 106.9 PPG, while Atlanta is ranked 23rd, allowing 109.8 PPG. However, Atlanta is ranked sixth in the league in scoring at 110.6 PPG, while New York is ranked 22nd at 106.2 PPG.
Cam heatin' up 🔥 pic.twitter.com/sFfK2si3T7
— Atlanta Hawks (@ATLHawks) December 24, 2021
If Young is able to play, I love the Hawks to win outright and there is excellent value at +145. However, if Young is forced to miss this game, I see an even better play on the total. Atlanta will lose their best, and only truly consistent, scorer in Young. In addition to his scoring skills, Young’s shooting gravity and playmaking opens up opportunities for the rest of Atlanta’s offense.
The Knicks, meanwhile, struggle to score in general, and the absences of Rose, Quickley and potentially Barrett will not do them any favors in the scoring department.
Without Young on the court, both teams should struggle to score, making the under an attractive total play.
- Hawks moneyline (+145) 1u
- Under 219 total points (-110) 1u
David graduated from Quinnipiac University with his Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism. A baseball, football and basketball fan, David has covered everything from local sports to Quinnipiac’s D-I teams. David also enjoys tracking his own wager predictions and modifying formulas to handicap games.
