The New York Knicks travel to Atlanta to face off against Trae Young and the Hawks for the third game of their playoff series. This game is scheduled for 7:00 PM EST and promises to be a cracker.
After a rather disappointing performance in game 1, the Knicks knew they had to win the second game to tie the series. The Knicks came out all guns blazing and just did that.
Veteran guard Derrick Rose saw a massive increase in his minutes and stepped up big time for the Knicks with a 24 point performance. With everybody chipping in the offensive end, the Knicks tried to limit Trae Young, and despite the young superstar scoring 30 points, limited the Hawks for a 101-92 win.
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The Knicks need to bring their ‘A-Game’ in a tough Atlanta crowd. Will talisman Julius Randle finally show up?
The Atlanta Hawks couldn’t assert their offensive dominance in the game. Despite Trae Young dropping a 30 point performance, the Hawks supporting cast fell apart in game 2. Incredible shooters like Bogdan Bogdanovic and Danilo Gallinari uncharacteristically were very poor from the three point line as he they shot a combined 4 of 22 from the perimeter.
With the entire team shooting only 12 of 44 attempted three pointers, the Hawks struggled. Even the pick and roll system between Young and Clint Capela didn’t capitalize. Coach Nate McMillan has to figure out a system in which his team can thrive despite Knicks’ cagey defense.
Predictions
While the series is poised at 1-1, the advantage is certainly with the Hawks. They have the home court advantage for the next two games and will be eager to capitalize on the same. Given that the Hawks have a much better offensive, they are the favorites in game 3, but if Julius Randle can finally step up, the Knicks could steal this game.
New York Knicks: Injury updates and lineup prediction
The Knicks will only miss a single player due to injuries. Center Mitchell Robinson is out with a foot injury and might not make his return this season. With an otherwise rather fit squad available, the Knicks will be determined to win take the lead in the series.
Coach Tibbs took a bold decision when he replaced Elfrid Payton for veteran guard Derrick Rose to start the second half. Given how explosive D-Rose was in the game, it won’t be surprising to seeing the veteran guard start the game.
Probable Lineup
RJ Barrett (G)
Derrick Rose (G)
Julius Randle (F)
Reggie Bullock (F)
Nerlens Noel (C)
Atlanta Hawks injury updates and lineup prediction
The Hawks will be missing a couple of players against the Knicks. Cam Reddish is sidelined and is out indefinitely with an Achilles injury while guard Brandon Goodwin is also out indefinitely due to illness.
With home court advantage, the Hawks will be determined to take the lead of the series by winning the third game of their series.
Probable Lineup
Trae Young (G)
Bogdan Bogdanovic (G)
DeAndre Hunter (F)
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John Collins (F)
Clint Capela (C)
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Who will win between the New York Knicks and the Atlanta Hawks? Let us know in the comments below.