Atlanta Hawks (29-37) vs. Los Angeles Lakers (36-31)
Atlanta Hawks vs. Los Angeles Lakers 3/18/24 – On Monday, March 18th 2024 at 10:30PM ET at Crypto.com Arena in Atlanta and Los Angeles respectively, basketball enthusiasts and bettors are looking forward to an epic battle between Atlanta Hawks and Los Angeles Lakers – each currently sporting 29-37 records and 36-31 records respectively – in a matchup that promises plenty of exciting basketball action and will no doubt provide viewers with free NBA predictions that may offer insight into where each side stands in the standings.
Analyzing the Atlanta Hawks has been an up and down season. Averaging 119.4 points per game with a field goal percentage of 46.4%, they have shown they can score with anyone. Unfortunately, their defense has often left them exposed, contributing to their sub-.500 record. Their road performance (11-22 against the spread) indicates difficulties when competing in hostile environments; something crucial when making this matchup decision.
On the other hand, Los Angeles Lakers have proven a formidable force at home this season, boasting a stronger record and higher team cohesion. Averaging 117.1 points per game while shooting 49.8% field goal percentage gives them an edge offensively while their defensive stats (5.6 blocks per game averaged) suggest they may offer a slightly more balanced approach than Hawks could give them an edge against them in this match-up.
Atlanta Hawks vs. Los Angeles Lakers 3/18/24 Game Info
| When: | Monday, March 18, 2024 at 10:30 PM ET |
| Where: | crypto.com Arena |
| TV: | TBA |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Trae Young (PG) vs. D’Angelo Russell (PG)
Trae Young has been the heart of Atlanta Hawks this season, averaging 26.4 points and 10.8 assists over 51 games. His ability to both score and distribute effectively makes him a potent two-way threat; however, his 4.3 turnovers per game show some inconsistency in his play. Young’s leadership on the floor and ability to create opportunities will be essential against Los Angeles Lakers defense.
D’Angelo Russell has been an indispensable contributor for the Lakers, scoring 17.8 points and dishing out 6.2 assists per game while being efficient and responsible with his ball handling (3.1 assist to turnover ratio demonstrating this). Russell will need to manage game play effectively while making key plays against Hawks defenses to remain effective for Lakers success.
Young and Russell both make significant impacts on a game when they face each other on the court, from scoring to playmaking to leadership and efficiency. When Young attacks the court aggressively while Russell maintains calm leadership and efficiency, an exciting battle ensues between them that not only influences offensive flow but also defend strategies; making their confrontation one of the mainstays of any given matchup.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
Betting odds for this matchup have yet to be set, but based on previous performances and standings of each team, the Lakers may be slightly favored due to home court advantage and more balanced team statistics. As soon as odds become available bettors should keep an eye out for potential value bets.
Atlanta Hawks Betting Trends
The Hawks’ recent form is far from consistent; with them going just 2-3 in their last five games both outright and against the spread. Their road struggle against the spread (11-22) should give pause for bettors considering betting them as underdogs in away games; furthermore, recent trends show less dramatic over/under bets being placed than before.
Los Angeles Lakers Betting Trends
The Lakers have demonstrated more consistency with a 3-2 record in their last five games both straight up and against the spread. Their home performances have been stronger than their road games, which may give them an advantage in this matchup. A trend towards overscoring indicates their offensive efficiency may result in high scoring games.
Atlanta Hawks vs. Los Angeles Lakers 3/18/24 Betting Picks
Based on analysis and betting trends, it appears as though the Lakers may have an edge in winning at home against the Hawks. Their balanced attack and slightly superior defensive metrics give them an advantage against them in front of their home crowd, though one should never underestimate Trae Young’s high-scoring offense which may make this game closer than anticipated.
Given these teams’ tendencies and key player matchups, betting on the Lakers seems wise, although betting against an easy victory seems smarter. Prop bets could include Trae Young and D’Angelo Russell’s points and assists as these key roles could offer value prop bets. Over/Under may depend heavily on initial line selection; given both teams’ offensive capabilities it might be tempting to lean toward an OVER result.
Expect an intensely competitive battle between these highly anticipated teams in this highly anticipated matchup, with Lakers likely taking advantage of home court advantage and balanced team play to secure a victory over Hawks. While Hawks should put up an impressive fight, eventually it should come down to which efficiency and strategic play prevails; bettors seeking premium expert advice might favor Lakers as an appealing bet with high scoring expected for this contest.
Free Pick and Prediction: Los Angeles Lakers 115, Atlanta Hawks 109.