Hawks @ Hornets
Certainly this is not one of the prettiest matchups to look forward to throughout tonight’s NBA slate. And where it may really get grotesque is on the defensive side of the ball for both teams.
The Hornets rank dead last in both defensive points per 100 possessions and effective field goal percentage. Conversely, the Hawks, defensively, come in at 27th in Pts/Poss and 29th in eFG%.
Aside from having a very much below-average defense, Atlanta is also coming into this matchup without a handful of their personnel.
Clint Capela, Onyek Okongwu and Wesley Matthews are all going to be absent for tonight’s game. Plus, despite their upcoming opponent trading away some of their top players (Terry Rozier, Gordon Hayward and P.J. Washington) they have won their last two games with their newest additions. Charlotte brought on Grant Williams, Seth Curry and Tre Mann.
Those three contributed 50 of the team’s total points in their last game vs the Pacers. I'd imagine they'd want to keep that momentum going with the new guys, as they head into the All-Star break after this evening.
I found some attraction to wager on this matchup because I was taken aback when I realized that Atlanta was laying as high as 7.5 points on the road. Regardless of the opponent, in what world should the Hawks warrant laying that many points away from home?
Not only is Atlanta 9-16 ATS on the road, but when they are laying six or more points in that situation - they are 3-8 against the number.
I get that the Hornets had some turnaround in their roster, and their defense is horrid; however, the Hawk’s defensive inabilities are just as poor and they very much struggle on the road - plus - don’t forget about all of their nagging injuries.
If I’m wrong - so be it, but I’m going to make a bet against Atlanta in this spot thinking they don’t deserve to be laying north of seven on the road against anyone.
Play: Hornets (+7.5, -115); Risk 1.15 units to win 1.00
NBA Record: 13-4 (+7.63)
*I may have other plays added throughout the day. I’m monitoring some props, as well as the total in the Bulls / Cavs game. So be on the lookout in case anything else is wagered.*
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