Atlanta Hawks vs New York Knicks Predictions – NBA Playoff Preview | April 28, 2026

The New York Knicks host the Atlanta Hawks in a pivotal Game 5 at Madison Square Garden. The series is tied 2-2 – winner takes a 3-2 series lead. Atlanta is without Jock Landale; both rosters are otherwise healthy.

Odds and Lines

• Moneyline: New York Knicks -251 | Atlanta Hawks +251
• Spread: NYK -6.5 | ATL +6.5
• Total: 213.5
• Win Probability: NYK 61.3% | ATL 38.7%

Playoff Context

After splitting the first four games, this is the series’ first true swing game. New York holds home court and is a significant -251 favorite. A win for the Knicks would put them in a commanding position to advance. Atlanta’s +251 underdog status reflects the challenge of winning at MSG.

Pace and Shooting

This matchup features two of the fastest-paced teams in these previews – New York at 103.6 and Atlanta at a blistering 108.0. Expect an up-and-down game. New York shoots 44.8% from the field and 36.3% from three; Atlanta hits 47.5% from the floor but only 33.2% from deep. New York holds the free throw edge (81.6% vs 75.2%).

Key Players and Projections

Jalen Brunson projects at 20.3/1.8/5.6 and will be the key decision-maker for the Knicks. OG Anunoby adds 17.6/7.0/1.4.

Nickeil Alexander-Walker has been Atlanta’s most consistent scorer – he carries a remarkable 23-game streak scoring 15+ points, averaging 22.9 over his last five (18, 25, 36, 21, 32). Jalen Johnson is on a 6-game streak with 8+ rebounds (avg 11.3 last 5), and Dyson Daniels has scored 10+ in 6 straight (avg 13.3).

Active Prop Streaks

• Josh Hart (NYK) – Blocks UNDER 0.5 – 12-game streak UNDER | Last 5 avg 0.0
• Jalen Brunson (NYK) – Blocks UNDER 0.5 – 10-game streak UNDER | Last 5 avg 0.0
• Jalen Johnson (ATL) – Pts+Ast UNDER 26.5 – 6-game streak UNDER | Last 5 avg 22.6
• Dyson Daniels (ATL) – Points OVER 9.5 – 6-game streak OVER | Last 5 avg 12.4
• Nickeil Alexander-Walker (ATL) – Assists UNDER 3.5 – 5-game streak UNDER | Last 5 avg 2.0

Prediction

New York’s home court advantage and defensive identity makes them the side to be on, but Atlanta’s firepower – especially Alexander-Walker’s scorching 23-game scoring run – means this will not be comfortable. Check the live NYK vs ATL game preview for updated lines. Build your bet using our Bet Builder Tool and keep track of all games on the NBA schedule.