Atlanta Hawks (9-12) vs. Toronto Raptors (9-13)
Atlanta Hawks vs. Toronto Raptors 12/13/23 – Mid-December marks a fascinating matchup when Atlanta Hawks (now 9-12) host Toronto Raptors (9-13). Set for Wednesday at Scotiabank Arena, both teams look forward to improving their standings through this encounter and fans and bettors can look forward to some free basketball tips as these closely matched teams face-off against one another.
The Hawks, despite their subpar record, have shown promise on offense. Averaging 122.2 points per game and making 46.7% of field goals attempted; their 3-point shooting has also been outstanding, producing 13.8 3-pointers per game on average. Unfortunately, however, defensive performance seems to be their weak spot, highlighted by less consistent performances away games against the spread (4-8).
The Raptors boast a similar record as the Hawks but employ a distinct playstyle. Averaging 111.1 points per game on 46.3% shooting from field goal attempts, their rebounding average stands at 45.9 per game; their rebounding is slightly stronger. Unfortunately, though, like their counterparts they have also experienced trouble against the spread in recent games which may play into this contest.
Atlanta Hawks vs. Toronto Raptors Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, December 13, 2023, at 7:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Scotiabank Arena |
| TV: | SportsNet |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Trae Young (PG) vs. Pascal Siakam (PF)
Trae Young is having another All-Star year for the Hawks, averaging 27 points and 10 assists per game while showing his remarkable range from three-point range and crafty finishes at the rim. Unfortunately, however, Young also leads all players in turnovers per game at nearly 4 per game; all this ball handling has led to increased fouls drawn and thus free throw opportunities.
Pascal Siakam had been averaging 21 points before being injured 6 games ago. Due to his versatile scoring ability and length, Siakam could score both inside and out while providing elite defense. On switches he will target Trae Young for exploiting his smaller stature; but also have to avoid foul trouble while guarding Young on the perimeter.
This star matchup between Young and Siakam could determine the game. If Young gets going early, Siakam and his Raptors defensive unit may have difficulty slowing him down; but if Siakam takes an aggressive stance by targeting Young aggressively inside, he could force Young into early foul trouble and turn this matchup into a winner for Toronto.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds are yet to be determined for this matchup. However, based on current trends and statistics, this game could be closely contested with neither team emerging as a clear favorite.
Atlanta Hawks Betting Trends
The Atlanta Hawks recent betting trends paint a bleak picture entering this matchup. The Hawks have gone 1-4 straight up in their last five contests, struggling to string together wins all season. This has resulted in a poor 0-5 record against the spread during that same stretch, failing to cover in each of their previous five. Digging deeper, Atlanta has been a poor bet on the road no matter the opponent. They sport a 4-8 against the spread record in away games this year. The lone bright spot for Hawks bettors has been the over.
Toronto Raptors Betting Trends
Toronto Raptors lately has not yielded positive results either. The Raptors have matched the Hawks by going 1-4 straight up in their last five contests. Their against the spread record is nearly identical at 1-4 ATS during that span. At home, where this game will be played, Toronto has shown some betting value, producing a 4-5 ATS record as hosts. But that still means they fail to cover more often than not. Analyzing recent Raptors totals reveals slight over lean. Only two of Toronto’s previous five games have gone over the posted total. Yet when looking at their last 12 home games, six have gone over the number.
Atlanta Hawks vs. Toronto Raptors 12/13/23 Betting Picks
Considering both teams’ recent forms and statistical analysis, this game could go either way. However, the Hawks’ strong offensive might give them a slight edge, particularly if Young is in top form. On the other hand, the Raptors’ balanced approach and home advantage could play a pivotal role.
For bettors, this game presents a challenging pick. Looking at individual player performances and over/under bets might be a safer strategy given the unpredictability of the outcome. Including top premium daily picks, one could lean towards a close game with a potential edge to the home team, the Raptors.
Free Pick and Prediction: Toronto Raptors 112, Atlanta Hawks 108