Prediction: Bet Boston to cover
- Over/Under: Atlanta vs Boston (231.5)
- Spread: Celtics -11.5
- Pick: Bet Boston to cover
Game preview Hawks vs Celtics
Boston Celtics and Atlanta Hawks are locked in battle in the opening round of the NBA Playoffs, with Game 5 set for later today.
The Celtics enter this matchup against the Hawks as double-digit favorites, boasting an 11.5-point spread advantage. The point total for this contest stands at 231.5.
On Sunday, the Boston Celtics defeated the Atlanta Hawks by a score of 129-121. Jaylen Brown led all scorers with 31 for Boston, while Trae Young scored 35 to lead Atlanta. Boston covered their point spread comfortably and exceeded their set point total for this contest.
Can the Celtics close out the Hawks?
Boston was no surprise in taking both home games against Atlanta to start their series; home-court advantage had always favored them during the regular season. With 57 Pythagorean Wins, they were easily the top team in the NBA.
Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum both possess the ability to take over games, making the Celtics truly a balanced team.
Dejounte Murray and Trae Young do not always share similar sentiments, with Trae’s inconsistent shot being an ongoing source of concern for the Hawks.
Though they try their best, the Hawks lack the resources to compete against more capable opponents.
Can the Hawks survive?
The Hawks put up 118.4 points per game (third in the league) while allowing 118.1 per contest (25th in NBA). They have a +24 scoring differential.
Atlanta records 44.4 rebounds per game (10th in the league), compared to the 44.1 of its opponents.
The Hawks hit 1.1 fewer threes per game than the opposition, 10.8 (24th in the league) compared to their opponents’ 11.9.
The Hawks rank fifth in the league averaging 115.1 points per 100 possessions on offense, and defensively are 28th, allowing 116.3 points per 100 possessions.
At home Atlanta is putting up 119.6 points per game, 2.4 more than it is averaging on the road (117.2).
Our Betting Pick for Today – Bet the Celtics to Cover -11.5
Boston was no surprise in taking both home games against Atlanta to start their series; home-court advantage had always favored them during the regular season. With 57 Wins, they were easily the top team in the NBA Eastern Congerence.
Jaylen Brown and Jayson Tatum can take over games, making the Celtics a truly balanced team.
Dejounte Murray and Trae Young do not always share similar sentiments, with Trae’s inconsistent shot being an ongoing concern for the Hawks.
Though they try their best, the Hawks lack the resources to compete against more capable opponents.
