Atlanta Hawks (10-15) vs. Houston Rockets (13-10)
Atlanta Hawks vs. Houston Rockets 12/20/23 – As the Atlanta Hawks and Houston Rockets gear up for their showdown on Wednesday, the stakes are high in this captivating NBA matchup. The Hawks, with a 10-15 record, are looking to claw their way back into contention, while the 13-10 Rockets aim to solidify their winning record. Set in the vibrant Toyota Center and aired on Space City Home Network, this game is a must-watch for fans and bettors alike, especially those keen on NBA daily free picks.
The Hawks have displayed outstanding offensive capabilities this season, averaging 122.4 points per game with a 47% field goal rate and 44.4 rebounds and 25.6 assists per game on average – yet their defense has struggled, evidenced by recent losses and poor performances against the spread in road games. While their team dynamics remain intact overall, turnovers and fouls remain key weaknesses.
At 109.5 points per game, the Rockets present an even approach to scoring. Their strength lies in their 35.9 defensive rebounding average per game which provides greater control of game pace. Their 45.7% field goal percentage shows their efficient shot selection decisions while maintaining solid performances both home and away illustrate their consistency.
Atlanta Hawks vs. Houston Rockets Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, December 20, 2023, at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Toyota Center |
| TV: | Space City Home Network |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Trae Young (PG) vs. Alperen Sengun (C)
Trae Young enters this contest as one of the premier offensive talents in the league today. The 24-year-old point guard is averaging career-bests across the board, putting up 28 points and 10.8 assists per game to lead the Hawks. His limitless shooting range, crafty handles, and precision passing allow Young to break down defenses on a nightly basis. However, he has struggled with shot selection at times this year, hoisting up questionable looks early in the shot clock. If Young focuses more on orchestrating Atlanta’s offense and picking his spots to attack, the Hawks should find more success.
Meanwhile, Alperen Sengun has emerged as a franchise cornerstone for the Rockets in just his second NBA season. This man is posting 19.7 points, 9 rebounds and 5.2 assists per night, showcasing impressive inside-outside versatility. Sengun has developed into an adept passer both from the post and perimeter to fuel Houston’s offense. He also provides stellar rim protection, allowing the Rockets’ defense to make major strides. Sengun’s abilities to run the offense from the center spot and control the paint on defense make him a unique force. This matchup against Young will test his perimeter mobility and scoring ability against one of the quickest guards in the league.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The current betting odds for the game are still to be determined, but analyzing both teams’ performances, bettors should look closely at the over/under trends and the spread performance, especially considering the Hawks’ struggle against the spread in recent games.
Atlanta Hawks Betting Trends
The Hawks are just 1-4 straight up and 0-5 against the spread over their last five contests. They have particularly struggled to cover on the road, going 4-8 ATS in away matchups this season. The over has hit in three of Atlanta’s previous five outings. If their lackadaisical defense shows up again, this game should fly over the total.
Houston Rockets Betting Trends
The Rockets are 2-3 straight up in their last five, but have posted a solid 4-4 ATS record at home this campaign. The under has come in during seven of Houston’s last 10 home matchups. So while oddsmakers posted this total in the 230s, recent trends say this could be more of a defensive battle between Sengun protecting the rim and Young hoisting jumpers all night.
Atlanta Hawks vs. Houston Rockets 12/20/23 Betting Picks
Considering the analysis and betting trends, this matchup leans slightly towards the Rockets, especially given their home-court advantage and more consistent performance against the spread. The key will be whether the Hawks’ offense can outmatch the Rockets’ defense.
For those looking for a safer bet, focusing on the total points market might be wise, especially with the trends suggesting a high-scoring game. Premium game analysis indicates that while the Rockets are a safer pick, the Hawks could surprise if their offense clicks, making the over a tempting option.
Free Pick and Prediction: Houston Rockets 115, Atlanta Hawks 110