The Knicks' Strong Start
The Knicks (14-9) have been one of the league’s most consistent teams early in the 2024-25 season. Despite a recent loss to the Detroit Pistons, they went 3-1 in a recent four-game home stretch. Their successful group stage run in the NBA Cup—finishing undefeated and atop their pool—has cemented their place in the quarterfinals.
A major reason for New York’s strong start has been the exceptional play of All-Star point guard Jalen Brunson, who has been the heart of the team’s offense since last season. Brunson is averaging nearly 27 points per game in the NBA Cup, leading the Knicks in scoring and helping to orchestrate the offense. His chemistry with newly acquired big man Karl-Anthony Towns (KAT) has been seamless, with Towns contributing a double-double in every NBA Cup game.
However, the Knicks have their work cut out for them against the Hawks, a team that has proven tough in their earlier meetings this season. Despite their recent loss to the Pistons, the Knicks will be eager to prove themselves at home, where the NY crowd could provide a significant advantage.
Atlanta Hawks: A Contender on the Rise
The Hawks (13-12) are currently in seventh place in the East, but their success in NBA Cup group play—where they finished with a 3-1 record—has shown that they are a force to be reckoned with. Atlanta’s offense is fueled by their superstar, Trae Young, who has averaged over 21 points and 11 assists in NBA Cup play. Young’s ability to score and facilitate will be critical for the Hawks as they aim to advance.
The Hawks' depth has also been key to their success this season. Notably, forward Jalen Johnson has stepped up, averaging more than 20 points per game in NBA Cup action. The Hawks also boast solid defensive pieces, with Dyson Daniels emerging as a key contributor on that end of the floor. Daniels’ ability to disrupt opposing offenses will be crucial in limiting the effectiveness of Knicks offensive stars.
However, the Hawks have not been without their challenges. Despite their strong individual performances, they have been inconsistent, with a notable blowout loss to the Denver Nuggets recently halting a six-game win streak. The Hawks’ struggles in this game, particularly on defense and the boards, could be a concern against a well-balanced Knicks team.
Key Matchup: Point Guards at the Forefront
The spotlight in this quarterfinal clash will undoubtedly shine on the two point guards: Jalen Brunson for the Knicks and Trae Young for the Hawks. Both are elite playmakers who run the show for their respective teams. Brunson has been playing at an All-Star level this season, providing leadership, scoring, and playmaking. On the other hand, Young has earned his reputation as one of the most dangerous offensive players in the league, capable of taking over a game at any moment.
Their head-to-head battle will likely determine the pace and flow of the game. If Brunson can control the tempo and avoid defensive disruptions from Daniels, the Knicks should be able to score at will. However, if Young can find his rhythm early and the Hawks defense steps up, it could be a long night for the Knicks.
Recent History and Predictions
The two teams faced off in early November, with the Hawks edging the Knicks 121-116 at home. Despite an incredible 34-point, 16-rebound performance from KAT, the Knicks struggled defensively, allowing Atlanta to grab 16 offensive rebounds and giving up crucial points in the paint. The presence of Clint Capela in the paint and the perimeter shooting from rookie Zaccharie Risacher, who dropped a career-high 33 points, proved too much for the Knicks to handle.
New York will need to adjust its defense, particularly in limiting second-chance opportunities and containing Trae Young, who had 23 points and 10 assists in that game. With the Knicks having multiple defensive options in OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges, the challenge will be stopping Young’s playmaking without overcommitting on defense and leaving other Hawks players open.
What to Expect
This quarterfinal matchup promises to be a hard-fought battle between two teams on the rise in the Eastern Conference. The Knicks will enter as slight favorites, given their home-court advantage and strong team chemistry. The Garden crowd will undoubtedly provide the energy needed for New York to take on the high-powered Hawks.
However, Atlanta’s mix of offensive firepower, led by Young, and defensive tenacity, particularly from players like Dyson Daniels, will keep them competitive. It will come down to whether the Knicks can exploit the Hawks' defensive lapses and how effectively they can contain Young's playmaking.
With a trip to Las Vegas and a potential semifinal appearance on the line, expect a competitive, high-intensity game that could turn into a showcase of some of the league’s brightest young stars. The Knicks will look to continue their strong start, while the Hawks will aim to prove they are more than capable of competing for a title.
Game Time: 1:00 AM GMT (8:00 PM ET)
Location: Madison Square Garden, New York, New York
