The New York Knicks are knocking on the door of the Eastern Conference semifinals, and they’ve got a golden opportunity to slam it shut on Thursday night. After a commanding 126-97 victory in Game 5, the Knicks now hold a 3-2 series lead over the Atlanta Hawks in this first-round playoff clash. Can they finish the job on the road, or will the Hawks force a decisive Game 7?

Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. ET at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, where the sixth-seeded Hawks have been tough to beat, boasting a 25-18 home record this season. For Atlanta, this is a chance to reach the second round for the first time since their magical 2020-21 run. Meanwhile, the third-seeded Knicks (53-29) are chasing their fourth straight conference semifinal appearance—a testament to their consistency in recent years.

New York will have to keep an eye on Josh Hart, who is listed as questionable with a back issue. His energy and rebounding have been key throughout the series. The Knicks have historically owned this playoff matchup, leading the all-time postseason series 12-7, though the Hawks have won six of the last ten meetings.

As for the betting lines, the Knicks enter as 2.5-point favorites, with the over/under set at 214.5 points. It’s a tight spread that reflects just how evenly matched these teams have been. But here’s where it gets interesting: the SportsLine Projection Model, which simulates every NBA game 10,000 times, has been on fire this postseason. After a 25-9 run (74%) on top-rated spread picks this season, the model is leaning toward the Over on the total. That means expect plenty of scoring action as both teams fight for survival.

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just tuning in for the playoff drama, this Game 6 promises high stakes and even higher intensity. Will the Knicks close it out, or will the Hawks force a winner-take-all Game 7? One thing’s for sure: the hardwood will be buzzing.