10* FIRST ROUND GAME OF THE YEAR (THIS IS THE BIG ONE!)
(NBA) Atlanta vs. New York, 05/23/2021 7:00 PM, Score: 107 - 105
Point Spread: 1.00 | -115.00 Atlanta (Away)
Result: Win
The set-up: The Hawks and Knicks in the playoffs. Who'd have thought? New York was consistent all season, but a great second half push has it in the drivers seat in this series. Atlanta's entire season changed when it hired Nate McMillan as head coach. Both teams avoided having to play in the "play in" tournament, and each got here using different styles of play. The Hawks push the pace and use their incredible shooting efficiency to stretch defenses, while the Knicks are better on the defensive end, wearing teams down and then also using efficient shooting themselves. It's an interesting confilct in styles, but I think the Hawks offer great value here to pull off the slight upset in Game 1.

The pick: The Knicks are going to have difficulties keeping pace with Trae Young and company in my opinion. Also note that the Knicks are just 2-7 ATS in their last nine when playing with three or more days of rest. The stage is set for a big upset in the opener.

This is a 10* FIRST ROUND GAME OF THE YEAR on the Hawks.