Atlanta Hawks vs. Indiana Pacers: Betting Odds and Expert Predictions
The Atlanta Hawks will meet the Indiana Pacers on Friday in a critical matchup during the NBA Cup group stage. This game is scheduled to tip off at 7 p.m. ET from Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Hawks, currently holding a record of 2-3, will face the still-winless Pacers, who stand at 0-4.
Team Overview
- Atlanta Hawks (2-3): Recently won against the Brooklyn Nets, 117-112, but did not cover the spread as 8.5-point favorites.
- Indiana Pacers (0-4): Suffered a narrow defeat to the Dallas Mavericks, losing 107-105, while covering a 6-point spread.
Key Players and Injuries
The Hawks will have to adjust following the injury of star point guard Trae Young, who sprained his right knee in the last game. Despite avoiding a serious ACL injury, his absence is expected to impact the team’s performance. Other notable players include:
- Jalen Johnson: Led the Hawks against the Nets with 23 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists.
- Nickeil Alexander-Walker: Contributed 18 points off the bench.
The Pacers also face significant challenges with several injuries to key players, including:
- Bennedict Mathurin (toe) – out
- Obi Toppin (foot) – out
- Tyrese Haliburton (Achilles) – out
- T.J. McConnell (hamstring) – out
- Andrew Nembhard (shoulder) – out
Betting Odds for Hawks vs. Pacers
According to BetMGM Sportsbook, the odds for the upcoming game are as follows:
| Bet Type | Hawks | Pacers |
|---|---|---|
| Moneyline | -140 | +115 |
| Against the Spread | -2.5 (-110) | +2.5 (-110) |
| Over/Under | 232.5 | |
Predictions
Expert analysis suggests the Hawks are favorites in this matchup. One prediction sees the Hawks winning 119 to 110. However, given the injuries on both sides, the game might not be as straightforward. The recent trends indicate both teams have seen a pattern of unders, making the UNDER 232.5 a possibility worth considering.
In conclusion, while the Atlanta Hawks face a challenging game against a struggling Indiana Pacers team, injuries could sway the final outcome. Bettors might lean towards the Hawks covering the spread but should remain cautious due to the ongoing injury issues affecting both teams.
