Atlanta Hawks vs. Phoenix Suns 3/21/24 – The Atlanta Hawks (30-37) are set to face off against the Phoenix Suns (39-29) in what promises to be an electrifying matchup this Thursday. With both teams having their ups and downs throughout the season, this game is crucial for their standings and potential playoff positioning. As fans and bettors alike anticipate this showdown, this analysis aims to provide the most insightful NBA betting picks and predictions for those looking to place their wagers on this game.
| When: | Thursday, March 21, 2024 at 10:30 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Footprint Center |
| TV: | NBAt |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Who wants these custom Hawks dunks? 👀 @MichelobULTRA
Enter to win: https://t.co/LX3oa4k0uu pic.twitter.com/L1AxiTqIqd
— Atlanta Hawks (@ATLHawks) March 20, 2024
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hawks | +9.5 -105 | o227.5 -110 | +285 |  |
| Suns | -9.5 -115 | u227.5 -110 | -357 | |
| ||||
Dejounte Murray (SG) vs. Kevin Durant (PF)
Dejounte Murray has been a breakthrough for Atlanta Hawks as he has been appearing in all 64 games so far, posting stats that are surpassing the expectation lines. With averages of 35.4 minutes a night, he has tallied 22.3 points per contest, along with 5.2 rebounds and 5.9 assists per game. Shortness of Murray in stature and flashing skills will make him a tough to beat opponent though his 2.4 turnovers per game look like the exact area that requires attention. Through his play, he will be the guy to figure out how to finally beat our competitors’ defense.
While the back end, Kevin Durant of the Phoenix Suns produces a standout performance every game, by only playing 61 games and averaging 37.3 minutes. At 27.8 points per game any shooter can make Durant scared, he is a scoring machine with 6.7 rebounds and 5.4 assists. His defense is also another notable one, clearing an average of 1.2 blocks per game. For Durant though, with his 3.3 turnovers per game, there is a little exposed weakness in dribbling in on-the-spot situations.
It is crucial to watch the speed and playing skills of Murray versus the shooting powers and defense work of Durant and define their importance. The result would tightly be connected to the effectiveness of the players’ pushing their own schema of play, and their partaking in the strategic realization by their team.
Hawks’ Hurdles to Overcome
The Hawks have demonstrated the skill to score, scoring an average of 119.3 points per game with a 46.4 field goal percentage. They do well in shots beyond the arc as well as from the free throw line, but on the road they are only 12-22 against the spread. Hawks should aim at reducing turnovers (12.6 per game) and acquiring their offensive rebounds, which will be their keystone strategies to win the game.
Suns’ Statistical Superiority
The Suns with an average of 116.9 points per game do not only have a high field goal percentage (49.4%) but also are good in defense averaging 6 blocks per game. In the road game, their better record in covering the spread compared to the Hawks implies consistency and performance under pressure. Thus, they are slight favorites. The Suns will succeed over the Hawks if they can dictate the pace and utilize the team’s strengths defensively.
NCAAB Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
The betting odds for this game are currently TBD, reflecting a tight matchup where either team could emerge victorious. Bettors should keep an eye on the spread and moneyline as they become available, considering the recent trends and key player performances.
Trends
Atlanta Hawks Betting Trends
Hawks are 2-3 in their last 5 games.
Atlanta Hawks are 2-3 in their last 5 games against the spread
Hawks are 12-22 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 1 of Hawks’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 18 of Hawks’ 33 last games at home
Phoenix Suns Betting Trends
Suns are 2-3 in their last 5 games.
Phoenix Suns are 1-4 in their last 5 games against the spread
Suns are 15-18 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 3 of Suns’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 16 of Suns’ 35 last games at home
Injuries
Atlanta Hawks
Wesley Matthews SG Is “?” Thursday vs Phoenix, Illness
Trae Young PG Is out indefinitely, Finger
Saddiq Bey SF Is out for season, Knee
Jalen Johnson SF Is downgraded to OUT Thursday vs Phoenix, Ankle
AJ Griffin SG Is downgraded to OUT Thursday vs Phoenix, Ankle
Phoenix Suns
Damion Lee SG Is out indefinitely, Knee
Josh Okogie SG Is downgraded to OUT Wednesday vs Philadelphia, Abdominal
Atlanta Hawks vs. Phoenix Suns Betting Picks
The upcoming game is expected to be closely fought considering the current state and records of both teams. The Suns are better in both field goal percentage and defensive statistics, but the Hawks cannot be written off because of their scoring proficiency. For the people who bet, consider Suns for the win but pay attention to the spread since the game can be closer than it is predicted.
When it comes to picking the best bet, checking on prop bets linked to key players like Murray and Durant could potentially be a way of profiting, as these guys are already providing a huge contribution to their teams. The over/under can also be a wise bet seeing that both teams have been heavily favored to go beyond the points limit in the recent games. For those looking for wagering, top betting sites will give current odds and betting options closer to the match time. Sign up today to make your NBA betting prediction!
Score Prediction: Suns 112, Hawks 108.
