The Atlanta Hawks have been stuck at .500 for what seems like the entire season. They haven’t been more than two games over that mark, which is disappointing given the expectations.
Even though they have struggled, it hasn’t been anything compared to the Orlando Magic, who have lost 12 of their last 13.
Taking a look at this NBA game betting preview, which team is the best bet in terms of the NBA odds?
Game: Atlanta Hawks (13-14) at Orlando Magic (5-23)
Location: Amway Center, Orlando, FL
Day/Time: Wednesday, 7:00 p.m. ET
Television: BSFL
Atlanta Hawks at Orlando Magic
Inconsistent Hawks Seek Answers
Despite Trae Young and John Collins forming a wonderful duo in the starting lineup, wins just haven’t been easy to come by. The Hawks have lost four of their last five games.
They started the year off at 4-9 before winning seven straight games, but have since fallen back down into their old ways. Young happens to be good enough to drag them out of it but he needs help.
Young averages 27.0 points, 4.1 rebounds and 9.4 assists. He needs more help than just Collins, though, if this team wants to win long-term.
Bench players like Lou Williams, Kevin Huerter and Danilo Gallinari will need to step up when their number is called.
These are three talented scorers that shouldn’t combine for 26.9 points per contest, less than what Young is averaging by himself. This could be a game to get themselves going offensively.
Nothing Going Right For Magic
It isn’t surprising that the Magic have struggled. After all, they are still in the middle of a rebuild.
Jalen Suggs is still out with a thumb injury and the team still awaits the return of both Jonathan Isaac and Markelle Fultz from their long-term injuries dating back to last season.
It hasn’t been all bad though, as Cole Anthony is turning into a star right before our eyes. The young guard is averaging 20.5 points, 6.1 rebounds and 5.6 assists.
He could have had a tremendous game-winning shot the other day if only Reggie Jackson didn’t sink a three as time expired to cancel it out.
Franz Wagner has been impressive with averages of 14.3 points, 4.4 rebounds and 2.8 assists per game, but outside of them there hasn’t been much to get excited about. It’s tough to back them if you betonline.
Hawks Heavy Favorites
The Hawks may be a far more talented team than the Magic, but they haven’t been on top of their game lately. During that seven-game winning streak, they were able to win each game by double digits.
In the past seven matchups, they have only won by seven-plus points once. The Magic are a scrappy team that usually fights until the very last second. That intensity could end up proving to be a big deal as this game progresses.
Atlanta is just 1-4-1 ATS in their last six matchups with the Magic on the road, a stat that again bodes well for Orlando. Even so, Atlanta will get the job done here in the sportsbook.
