The NBA Cup is out of the group stage, and into the elimination stage. It is getting exciting as there will be a new champion of the 2024 Emirates NBA Cup with the Lakers unable to get out of the group stage.

There are two games today, one in each conference. However, today’s game breakdown takes place in the Eastern Conference. This is a 2020s rivalry, although most are unfamiliar with it, but both fanbases know it. It should be an electrifying game.

 

 

 

New York Knicks: Ride

The New York Knicks are ready to go for the elimination game tonight against the Atlanta Hawks. Just like Lana Del Rey the Knicks are ready to Ride for the 2024 Emirates NBA Cup. The Knicks come in as -7.0-point favorites against an Atlanta team that has won six of their last ten games.

The Knicks will ride Karl-Anthony Towns as he has a clear advantage over Clint Capela and the rest of the Hawks front court. He should have a great game with an opportunity to play in one of the most meaningful games of his career. Look for the Knicks to play with intensity tonight and go through Towns and Jalen Brunson.

 

 

 

Atlanta Hawks: On Deck

The Atlanta Hawks are playing much better than they did last year and are setting themselves up for a great few years with young talent. Dyson Daniels and Jalen Johnson were first round picks in 2022 and 2021 and are starting to really find their footing in the NBA. Both have improved their game this season, and it has led to more wins for the Hawks.

Of course, Trey Young will do his thing, likely earning several assists and points. The question becomes can they find a way to stop Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson. Atlanta, just like Gucci Mane, are On Deck and winning an elimination NBA Cup match at Madison Square Garden would be a bold statement.

 

 

 

New York Knicks Starting Lineup

Atlanta Hawks Starting Lineup

 

 

 

Hawks vs. Knicks Predictions & Picks Today: Wednesday, 12/11

Both franchises are looking for something to boost the morale of their fanbases, and to put something from this century in the trophy case. 

If the games yesterday are any indicator, then this should be a competitive game, with the spread in question. That is why two player props are the picks of the night.

 

 

 

Hawks vs. Knicks Prediction: Trae Young Over 2.5 Threes Made (+100 on DraftKings Sportsbook) & Over 19.5 Points (-120 on Bet365)

Both Karl-Anthony and Clint Capela’s rebounding lines are tempting. However, Trae Young brings a little bit more when playing at Madison Square Garden. Reggie Miller was once the menace of the Big Apple, and that role has gone to Trae Young this century, more specifically this decade.

Young has played 20 games against the New York Knicks and averages 25.6 points per game against them. In his one game against them this year he scored 23 points. Many remember his playoff dominance from 2021, and he is the only visiting player in the last 45 years to have three consecutive 30-point playoff games. 

It could be a feeling of relaxation, it could be the rowdy New York Knicks fans talking noise to him, or just a good old fashioned personal rivalry. Whatever the case may be, we are betting two units on him tonight. One on his point line set at 21.5 points, and another on over 2.5 threes made at even odds. 

If the threes made is successful, the other prediction should be a lock, but Young can get to 22 points with a great mid-range game, as well as free throws. Trust the former Oklahoma Sooner to come through with two player props tonight! 3 baskets from deep and 22 total. 

 

 

 

Bet Smart, Be Lucky -Iggy-