NBA PLAYOFFS 2021

Knicks VS Hawks

1st ROUND

Game 2: May 26th

Game 1 was a heartbreaker for the Knicks. Lou Williams helped the Hawks stay in the game, which would bite the Knicks in the butt who seemed to take for granted their 4 seed. I am a huge Knicks fan and all season have been shocked at how well the Knicks have played in the 4th quarter and closing out games. It didn’t seem like they were as invested or dialed in as they usually are, and it seemed as though they were overlooking the Hawks who they beat in all 3 of their regular season outings. I believe the Knicks bounce back tonight and get a win. They know this game is essential because they will have to win games on the road in order to stay in the series if they lose tonight. I believe they have a “win at all costs” mentality tonight, and the MIP Julius Randle will have a much better game than he did in game 1. Take the Knicks -2, Julius Randle over 25.5 points, Derrick Rose over 17.5 points, and over 212.5 points.

Game 3: May 28th

Start Time: 7 pm EST

Venue: State Farm Arena, Atlanta

Where to Watch: ESPN

Game 2 was a thriller. The roof was ready to blow off of Madison Square Garden. The Knicks second unit was the difference maker in that game - Randle and the starters seem to be battling the pressure and spotlight of the playoffs, but I think they are feeling more comfortable after a huge comeback win. The pressure on Randle to perform well was insane, and I think he plays his best ball when he feels like he has nothing to lose. Now all the pressure is on Trae Young, who has home court advantage and has been talking crazy shit in the first 2 games. We will see if he can back it up, but I think the Knicks have the momentum and feel like underdogs, which is when the play their best ball. I think the Knicks take this one. Take the Knicks +4.5 and Julius Randle over 24.5 points.

Game 5: June 2nd

Start Time: 7:30 pm EST

Venue: Madison Square Garden, NYC

Where to Watch: TNT

The Knicks are in a tough spot. They have been getting outplayed and outworked in nearly every game. The past 2 have been ugly, but they have a chance to turn the series around tonight on their home court. If they have any chance at all, Julius Randle needs to snap out of his slump and play much better. He cannot get his shot to fall and I believe his emotions and lack of playoff experience is getting to him, but he has had 4 games to break through that so he has no excuse tonight. I believe he will shoot more effectively tonight and charge the rim when he touches the ball. I think the Knicks will win this one. Take the Knicks Money Line, over 208.5 total points, and Julius Randle over 23.5 points.