Game Overview
The Philadelphia 76ers, currently positioned sixth in the Eastern Conference with a record of 30-24, will host the Atlanta Hawks, who sit at the 10th spot with a 26-30 record, on Thursday evening at 7 p.m. EST. Bettors will note that the 76ers are favored by 4.5 points, with an over/under line set at 237.5 for the game.
Team Performance
As the Hawks enter this encounter, they do so riding a three-game losing streak. In contrast, Philadelphia has achieved a mixed record of 19 wins and 18 losses against teams in the Eastern Conference. Defensively, the 76ers rank ninth in their conference, conceding an average of 115.9 points per game, while managing to limit their opponents’ shooting percentage to 47.1%.
Atlanta has struggled in conference matchups this season, posting a 13-20 record. However, they excel in fast-break scoring, averaging 18.0 points per game in this category—led by Jalen Johnson, who contributes 4.2 fast-break points on average. The Hawks allow 118.6 points per game, compared to the 116.2 points the 76ers score on average, revealing a slight defensive disadvantage for Atlanta. Moreover, Atlanta holds a field goal percentage of 47.2%, marginally exceeding the 47.1% shooting percentage allowed by Philadelphia’s defense.
Previous Encounters
This upcoming game marks the third encounter between these two teams this season, with the Hawks emerging victorious in their previous matchup on December 14, when they edged the 76ers 120-117. In that thrilling contest, Dyson Daniels led Atlanta with 27 points, while Paul George set the pace for Philadelphia with a commendable 35 points.
Standout Players
Looking at the standout players, Tyrese Maxey of the 76ers has been putting up impressive numbers, averaging 28.9 points, 6.8 assists, and two steals. Meanwhile, Kelly Oubre Jr. has been consistent from beyond the arc, making an average of 1.7 three-pointers per game in his last 10 appearances. For the Hawks, Johnson has emerged as a key player, recording averages of 23.3 points, 10.6 rebounds, and 8.2 assists. CJ McCollum also contributes significantly with an average of 19.9 points and 3.2 assists in his last 10 games.
Recent Performances and Injuries
In their recent performances, the 76ers have notched a 6-4 record over their last 10 games, scoring an average of 114.1 points, while the Hawks hold a similar 5-5 record, averaging 115.9 points. When it comes to rebounding, the Hawks slightly edge out with an average of 43.2 rebounds compared to the 76ers’ 40.1 rebounds.
In terms of injuries, Joel Embiid of the 76ers is listed as day-to-day due to a knee issue, alongside Quentin Grimes who is also facing an illness. The Hawks will be without Jonathan Kuminga, who is out due to a knee injury.
Conclusion
This matchup promises to showcase intense competition as both teams aim for critical victory to bolster their standings in the tightly contested Eastern Conference.
