After splitting last night’s predictions with a 1-1 performance, our season record now stands at 139-79, maintaining an accuracy rate of 63.7%. Tonight, the Emirates NBA Cup quarterfinals continue with two exciting matchups, and we’re aiming for a strong rebound.
The New York Knicks take on the Atlanta Hawks in what promises to be a gritty battle for a spot in the semifinals against the Milwaukee Bucks. This matchup may come down to whether the Knicks can contain Atlanta’s perimeter shooting while exploiting their defensive weaknesses.
In the West, the Houston Rockets face the Golden State Warriors for a chance to meet the Oklahoma City Thunder in the semifinals. This game could hinge on whether Houston’s youthful energy can withstand Golden State’s playoff-like intensity in a knockout setting.
Let’s break down these games and aim to deliver a perfect night in predictions.
Atlanta Hawks At New York Knicks – 7:00 PM EST
Hawks Current Record: 13-12
Knicks Current Record: 15-9
Hawks Injuries: Bogdan Bogdanovic – Day To Day (Quad), De’Andre Hunter – Day To Day, Trae Young – Day To Day (Achilles), Jalen Johnson – Day To Day (Shoulder), Cody Zeller – Out (Personal), Seth Lundy – Out (Ankle)
Knicks Injuries: Karl-Anthony Towns – Day To Day (Knee), Josh Hart – Day To Day (Ankle), Mithcell Robinson – Out (Ankle), Kevin McCullar Jr. – Out (Knee)
Last 5 Meetings: Knicks Lead 3-2
The New York Knicks host the Atlanta Hawks in the 2024 NBA Cup Quarterfinals at Madison Square Garden. This highly anticipated clash features two teams with contrasting styles and recent forms. The Knicks have been an offensive juggernaut behind Jalen Brunson and Karl-Anthony Towns.Â
Their efficient scoring, coupled with a home-court advantage, makes them a formidable opponent. Towns, in particular, poses a matchup nightmare for Atlanta, having dropped 34 points in their previous encounter.
The Hawks enter the game with momentum, riding a three-game road winning streak. Trae Young, the league leader in assists, orchestrates Atlanta’s high-octane offense. However, the Hawks’ defensive struggles, particularly against three-point shooting, could be exploited by New York’s sharpshooters. The potential absence of key players like Jalen Johnson and Bogdan Bogdanovic might further hinder Atlanta’s chances in this elimination game.
While the Hawks have shown resilience, the Knicks’ superior depth and offensive efficiency give them the edge in this matchup.Â
Prediction: Hawks def. Knicks 124-118
Golden State Warriors At Houston Rockets – 9:30 PM EST
Warriors Current Record: 14-9
Rockets Current Record: 16-8
Warriors Injuries: Andrew Wiggins – Day To Day (Ankle), Moses Moody – Out (Knee), De’Anthony Melton – Out (ACL)
Rockets Injuries: Cam Whitmore – Day To Day (Wrist), Jae’Sean Tate – Day To Day (Back), Alperen Sengun – Day To Day (Knee), Steven Adams – Day To Day (Knee)
Last 5 Meetings: Warriors Lead 5-0
The Golden State Warriors and Houston Rockets clash in a highly anticipated NBA Cup quarterfinal matchup. Golden State enters with a psychological advantage, boasting 15 straight wins over Houston, but the Rockets have shown significant growth this season. Both teams bring momentum, with the Warriors recently defeating Memphis and Houston excelling under coach Ime Udoka.
The Warriors rely on Stephen Curry and Draymond Green to lead their attack. Curry’s sharpshooting and Green’s defensive leadership make them formidable in high-stakes games. Golden State’s depth, featuring contributors like Buddy Hield and Moses Moody, gives them an edge in maintaining energy and adapting during crunch time.
The Rockets counter with Jalen Green and Alperen Sengun, both enjoying strong seasons. Green’s scoring ability and Sengun’s versatility have fueled Houston’s success. With a solid home record of 9-3, the Rockets aim to exploit their defensive improvements and force turnovers against Golden State.
Prediction: Warriors def. Rockets 122-115
