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Hawks vs. Knicks prediction: New York to win, Jalen Brunson projected for big game in Friday's NBA matchup [1/2/2026]
Updated: | First published:
Written by Ryan Leaver, Senior Sports and Betting Editor
Get Atlanta Hawks vs New York Knicks predictions for NBA Friday.
The New York Knicks will square off with the Atlanta Hawks in NBA action at Madison Square Garden on Friday, commencing at 7:30 PM ET.
Based on the latest simulations and today’s injury reports, Dimers' proven NBA model predicts the Knicks as the most likely winner of the Hawks vs. Knicks game.
This prediction follows the latest NBA Injury Report, which suggests the Knicks lineup will feature stars like Jalen Brunson, Karl-Anthony Towns and OG Anunoby, while the Hawks will be led by Jalen Johnson, Trae Young and Nickeil Alexander-Walker.
This article offers further insights into Friday's matchup, including an expanded look at the predicted score, best bets and player prop picks.
Hawks vs. Knicks prediction: Who will win and cover?
Using powerful machine learning and data, we have simulated the result of Friday's NBA game between the Hawks and Knicks 10,000 times as part of our NBA predictions coverage.
Our independent predictive model gives the Knicks a 72% chance of defeating the Hawks. Our predicted final score has the Knicks winning 125-118.
According to our model, the Hawks (+7.5) have a 54% chance of covering the spread, while the 245.5-point over/under has a 54% chance of staying under.
Hawks vs. Knicks odds
We have sourced the best NBA odds in America for this game, which are listed here:
| Bet Type | Hawks | Knicks |
|---|---|---|
| Spread | +7.5 (-108) | -7.5 (-110) |
| Moneyline | +260 | -300 |
| Total | o245.5 (-115) | u245.5 (-105) |
All odds are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.
Hawks vs. Knicks picks and best bet
After matching our probabilities against the best available odds, we can reveal our picks for each of the major markets. Plus, find our best bet for the game below:
| Bet Type | Pick | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|
| Spread | Hawks +7.5 | -108 |
| Moneyline | Hawks | +260 |
| Total | Under 245.5 | -105 |
According to our NBA best bets, the top play to make on this game is Under 245.5 total points.
Hawks vs. Knicks player props
Betting on Atlanta vs. New York NBA player props? We have crunched the numbers to project how each team's leading players will perform at Madison Square Garden.
Jalen Johnson is expected to lead the Hawks with 25 points, 10 rebounds and 8 assists, while Jalen Brunson is projected to have 30 points, 3 rebounds and 7 assists for the Knicks.
Check out our NBA player projections for a full range of projected box scores, including points, assists, rebounds and today's NBA first basket picks.
Hawks prediction
Our model's projected player stats for the Hawks are:
| Player | PTS | REB | AST | 3PM | DFS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jalen Johnson | 25 | 10 | 8 | 2 | 55 |
| Trae Young | 21 | 2 | 9 | 2 | 42 |
| N. Alexander-Walker | 18 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 32 |
| K. Porzingis | 13 | 4 | 2 | 2 | 25 |
| Onyeka Okongwu | 13 | 7 | 3 | 2 | 32 |
Knicks prediction
Projected points, rebounds, assists and three-pointers made for the Knicks:
| Player | PTS | REB | AST | 3PM | DFS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jalen Brunson | 30 | 3 | 7 | 3 | 50 |
| K. Towns | 21 | 11 | 3 | 1 | 44 |
| OG Anunoby | 18 | 6 | 2 | 2 | 36 |
| Mikal Bridges | 16 | 5 | 5 | 2 | 36 |
| Jordan Clarkson | 11 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 21 |
Hawks vs. Knicks game-day updates and essential details
Friday's matchup between the Knicks and Hawks at Madison Square Garden is scheduled to start at 7:30 PM ET.
- Who: Atlanta Hawks vs. New York Knicks
- Date: Friday, January 2, 2026
- Time: 7:30 PM ET/4:30PM PT
- Venue: Madison Square Garden
Conclusion
We predict the Knicks, with a 72% win probability, will likely beat the Hawks on Friday, with Jalen Johnson projected for a game-high 55 fantasy points.
AI and automation have enhanced this article to quickly deliver accurate Hawks vs. Knicks insights, with human oversight ensuring high editorial quality. Our predictions are drawn from the latest data to help you make informed decisions. For additional resources and advice on responsible gambling, please call 1-800-GAMBLER.
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Ryan Leaver uses advanced statistical models and simulations to predict outcomes and provide predictions for the NBA, NFL, college football, college basketball, and soccer. He offers detailed game previews, best bets, props, and futures articles.
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