New York @ Chicago
The Bulls are rolling behind Buzelis, but the Knicks simply have more proven talent. Jalen Brunson is in dominant scoring form and gives New York the best closer on the floor, while Karl-Anthony Towns should find easier matchups against Chicago’s young frontcourt. The key edge comes on the wings — the Knicks can throw multiple long, physical defenders at Buzelis and Giddey, which should slow Chicago’s rhythm. If New York tightens up defensively, their experience and depth should be enough to hand the Bulls their first loss.
Atlanta @ Indiana
Even without Trae Young, the Hawks should have the advantage here. Atlanta just showed they can move the ball and score efficiently without him, and they still have more healthy talent available. The Pacers are missing nearly their entire core — Haliburton, Mathurin, Nembhard, Toppin and more — leaving their rotation extremely thin. With Atlanta’s wings and defensive backcourt able to control tempo, the Hawks should be too strong for an injury-depleted Indiana team.
Toronto @ Cleveland
Scottie Barnes is set up well to go over points + rebounds here. With Jakob Poeltl likely out, Barnes should log more minutes at the 5 and take on the bulk of the rebounding. He’s already coming off a 31-point performance, and Cleveland has struggled with physicality on the glass. Increased usage, more board opportunities, and Toronto needing him to carry the offense all point to Barnes clearing his line.
