Two games where one side's defence and frontcourt problems are the story.
In Washington, Atlanta arrives with three centres out and a defence that has given up 120 or more in half of its last ten games. The Hawks still shoot well from three and won at Indiana on a hot first half, but they fade after halftime. Washington leans on Young and George, gets to the line, and has won through third-quarter runs. Atlanta's lead early should shrink as the rim and glass tell, and that is why I'm siding with the Wizards at home.
In New York, Chicago has lost five of its last six and concedes close to 129 a night, with its bigs doubtful. The Knicks already beat them 133-127 in Chicago, and they are at home with equal rest. Chicago loses the most ground in the first and third quarters, so I'm siding with the Knicks to win.
