Knicks at Hawks game preview

ATLANTA- The Knicks are taking their train wreck to Atlanta tonight, and they will try to get back on track against a Hawks team that is playing very well offensively. The Hawks are currently 5th in the NBA on offense at 104.6 points per 100 possessions, and they take on a defense that gives up 102.9 points per 100 possessions, which is 20th in the NBA.

The Knicks are sitting at 2-4 on the young season, and it has caused disarray in New York. There are reports of players-only meetings, unhappy owners, and Mike Woodson’s seat getting a little warm. They are without Tyson Chandler, and now there are reports that say Iman Shumpert may be moved for some front court depth.

MATCH UP TO WATCH-

The Knicks are relying on Andrea Bargnani and Amar’e Stoudemire to play defense down low, and that should make NBA fans throw up. Paul Millsap and Al Horford may not be large in stature, but they have had a nice high-low game with Horford in the high post, and it is extremely effective. Expect those two guys to feast on Bargnani and Stoudemire tonight, which should open up shots on the perimeter for Kyle Korver.

PREDICTION-

The fact that the Hawks are a top ten offense and the Knicks are a bottom ten defense does not bode well for New York. I expect Carmelo Anthony to carry the majority of the load for the Knicks, and he has been good against Atlanta. In his last 4 games against the Hawks, he is putting up over 32 points per game. The Knicks are starting J.R. Smith to get something going, but I don’t like their chances. Mike Woodson needs to preach ball movement, and less isolation in his return to Atlanta. The Hawks win 113-102 tonight.

I am coming to you live from the press box in Philips Arena alongside Fansided’s Brad Rowland, and we will bring you all the latest from this game as it unfolds.