Suns vs Hawks Betting Odds – Hawks take advantage of poor Phoenix defense
NBA Odds: Pick Atlanta |
Online betting players have a tough time figuring out Phoenix, as the Suns can score with anyone in the league, but they can’t seem to stop anyone, which is why they struggle on the road. This theory will be put into play on Friday when they head to Atlanta, who is a very good team at home and have the ability to make defensive stops when they have to.
| WHAT: NBA betting |
| WHEN: Friday, January 15, 8:00 PM ET |
| WHERE: Philips Arena, Atlanta, GA |
| KEY STAT: |
The Storyline - Suns vs Hawks betting odds
This will be the second of a four-game road trip for Phoenix, who lost 122-114 in Indiana on Wednesday to continue their inconsistent road play. Atlanta has won four of their last five, including a big road win in Boston on Monday to stay within a half-game of Orlando in the Southeast division.
Offensive Matchups - Suns vs Hawks betting odds
The Suns are still leading the league in points scored with their run-and-gun style, and they’ve been held under 100 points just five times this year. Amare Stoudamire is averaging 22.2 points and 10.4 boards in his last five contests, while Steve Nash steers the team, notching 24.4 points and 11.2 assists in his last five.
The Hawks aren’t far behind in seventh in points scored, and six players are averaging at least 9.4 points, led by Joe Johnson. The addition of Jamal Crawford takes some of the pressure off of Johnson, while Josh Smith has been much smarter with his shot selection.
Betting Edge: Draw
Defensive Matchups - Suns vs Hawks betting odds
Defense is the reason that Sportsbook players can’t depend on Phoenix as only Golden State has allowed more points. With all of his talent and athleticism, it’s amazing that Stoudamire doesn’t average one block a game. Meanwhile, Nash has problems covering the quicker point guards in the league.
Betting Edge: Hawks
Notable Injuries - Suns vs Hawks betting odds
Nash suffered a bloody lip against the Pacers, but he should be fine to face the Hawks after receiving stitches.
The Hawks are completely healthy for the moment, which will help them keep pace at the top of the East.
Betting Edge: Draw
Betting Prediction - Suns vs Hawks betting odds
The Suns have won four of their last five against the Hawks, including a 104-99 win in Atlanta last year. This year could be a different story, though, as Phoenix is a shaky 9-11 on the road, while the Hawks are a stellar 15-4 at home. Phoenix is only 16-15 when their opponents score 100 points or more, while the Hawks are 18-5 when they drop 100. Given Phoenix’s problems on defense, it should be a given that they’ll reach that point to claim a victory.
Craig’s Pick: Atlanta
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