New York Knicks: One key advantage against each top seed in the East

Advantage vs Hawks: A Winning Record

The Hawks have capitalized on a second-half surge to take the #4 seed in the East. Star Trae Young has his team in a prime position to make a serious run during his first postseason berth.

Despite the potential for offensive fireworks, the Hawks are the first team on this list that the Knicks have a real likelihood of conquering. In fact, I would argue that New York should be favored in a four-game series.

The reason? As is the case with every team, the Knicks hold some sort of defensive advantage. However, unlike these other potential foes, the Knicks hold a distinct track record of success against the Hawks this season.

New York currently holds a 2-0 record against Atlanta, with a final matchup coming on April 21st. Their first matchup was a 113-108 victory in which Randle, Barrett, and Immanuel Quickley all performed well. Young posted 31 points in the loss. The second contest, a 123-112 win by NYC, featured a 44-point outburst by Randle with Barret and Quickley again serving as key factors. The team also held Young to just 23 points.

There are real reasons to expect very similar outcomes in future matchups. The Hawks, who are not known for the defense, should provide opportunities for the Knicks’ best scorers to flourish. If they can keep Young from taking over, they should prove to be the better team.

Knicks fans should be rooting hard for a Knicks vs Hawks matchup in the first round.

How do you think the Knicks match up with these Eastern Conference teams?