Hawks vs Knicks prediction for Game 5: Kalshi NBA Playoffs trading

Hawks vs Knicks prediction for Game 5

The numbers point to the Knicks as the clear favorites to defend Madison Square Garden. With a massive gap in probability, the data reflects strong confidence in New York securing a pivotal victory on their home floor, even considering the tightly contested nature of the series so far.

Knicks vs Hawks Game 5 statistical mismatches

The most glaring mismatch in this series has been on the glass. New York is relentlessly bullying Atlanta in the rebounding department, pulling down 45.25 boards per contest to the Hawks' 39.75. The Knicks are also executing far better on the perimeter, knocking down 38% of their three-pointers while Atlanta has struggled from deep, shooting just 33%. Defensively, the Hawks have relied on their disruption to stay in games, slightly edging New York with 8 steals and 5.75 blocks per game. However, Atlanta is still surrendering 51 points in the paint per night to the Knicks' physically imposing frontcourt.

The defining matchup to watch remains the heavyweight backcourt battle between Jalen Brunson and CJ McCollum. In Game 4, the Knicks' balanced attack overwhelmed Atlanta as OG Anunoby erupted for 22 points on 9-of-16 shooting, while Towns dominated with a 20-point, 10-rebound, 10-assist triple-double. McCollum was held to just 17 points on 8-of-15 shooting after torching the Knicks for 32 points in Game 2. Down low, Karl-Anthony Towns poses a massive interior threat, forcing Onyeka Okongwu and Jalen Johnson into a grueling defensive assignment on the block.

While the stars have consistently delivered, the supporting casts must find their rhythm. Atlanta desperately needs better perimeter efficiency from Jonathan Kuminga, who shot just 0-for-6 from three in Game 4 and is hitting only 19% from deep in the series. Meanwhile, New York will look for Mikal Bridges to sustain his Game 4 bounce-back (8 points on 3-of-4 shooting) after going a combined 3-for-13 in Games 2 and 3.

Hawks vs Knicks injury report ahead of Game 5

New York Knicks

• No reported injuries.

Atlanta Hawks

• Jock Landale (C): Out (Ankle)

Entering this pivotal Game 5 matchup at Madison Square Garden, the New York Knicks boast a pristine bill of health with no players listed on the injury report. This gives them their full arsenal to defend their home floor.

Conversely, the Atlanta Hawks will continue to be without backup center Jock Landale, who remains sidelined with an ankle injury that is expected to keep him out for at least two more weeks. While Atlanta's core starters remain intact, Landale's absence depletes their frontcourt depth.

Hawks vs Knicks Game 5 prediction

After the Knicks stormed back with a dominant 114-98 victory in Game 4 to even the series at 2-2, the data heavily suggests New York will carry that momentum into Game 5 and take a 3-2 series lead. Backed by a commanding 70% win probability, the Knicks' statistical advantages should ultimately overpower the Hawks at Madison Square Garden.

Expect Atlanta to keep the game highly competitive early, relying on their defensive disruption and the elite scoring of CJ McCollum, who is logging 24.5 points per contest overall. However, New York's superior perimeter efficiency (38% to Atlanta's 33%) and a healthy roster will likely wear the Hawks down in the second half.

Look for Jalen Brunson to orchestrate the offense masterfully, capitalizing on New York's second-chance opportunities to pull away late. Atlanta simply lacks the interior bodies to survive another 48 minutes of New York's relentless paint pressure and rebounding prowess without Landale to absorb crucial minutes. The Knicks will protect their home floor and push the Hawks to the brink of elimination.

Prediction: New York Knicks 112, Atlanta Hawks 103