4* NBA TUESDAY NIGHT KNOCKOUT

Atlanta vs. New Jersey, 12/27/2011 19:30 EDT, Score: 106 - 70

Point Spread: -4/-107 Atlanta

Sportsbook: 5Dimes

Result: Win

Atlanta appeared to really start to get things turned around in the postseason last year, and I think the Hawks could surprise everyone by how well they play. Atlanta catches the Nets on the second game of a back-to-back, which I believe is a lot harder on teams with less time to get in shape with the shortened offseason.

A big reason why I think the Hawks are primed for a better 2011-12 season is point guard Jeff Teague, who really emerged in the playoff series against the Bulls. Teague averaged 14.8 points and 4.2 assists. I believe he is the piece the Hawks have been missing to get them over the hump. BET THE HAWKS -4!