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Atlanta Hawks vs. Charlotte Hornets - Season Opener Preview

Charlotte, North Carolina; Wednesday, 7 p.m. EDT

Spread: Hawks -3; Over/Under: 233.5

Introduction

The NBA season opener presents an intriguing showdown between the Atlanta Hawks and the Charlotte Hornets. As we kick off the new season, we'll delve into an extensive analysis of both teams, covering their offense, defense, and any significant injuries that may impact the game. With a -3 points spread, this game offers plenty of excitement for NBA predictions and picks for today.

Team Breakdowns

Atlanta Hawks

The Atlanta Hawks finished the previous season with a 41-41 record, demonstrating their competitiveness in the Southeast Division. While their record was .500, the Hawks are a team on the rise, and they have key players who can impact the game on both ends of the floor.

Offense

The Hawks are led by the dynamic point guard Trae Young, who averaged 26.2 points and 10.2 assists per game last season. Young is the focal point of the Atlanta attack, and his ability to create scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates is unparalleled. Despite a drop in his three-point shooting percentage, Young remains a scoring machine.

Dejounte Murray, who joined the Hawks, is another key contributor on the offensive end. He made the All-Star Game last season and averaged 20.5 points, 6.1 assists, and 5.3 rebounds. The Hawks have a diverse backcourt that can create matchup problems for opponents.

Defense

Defensively, the Hawks have a reliable rim protector in Clint Capela, who averaged a double-double last season with 12.0 points and 11.0 rebounds per game. Capela's presence in the paint is essential for the Hawks' defense, and they can disrupt opponents' scoring with their shot-blocking ability.

Injuries

The Hawks do not have any significant injuries to report, which bodes well for their season opener. They are expected to enter the game at full strength.

Charlotte Hornets

The Charlotte Hornets struggled in the previous season, finishing with a 27-55 record. Despite their record, the Hornets have a young and promising core of players, and they are eager to showcase their potential in the upcoming season.

Offense

LaMelo Ball, the rising star of the Hornets, demonstrated his brilliance last season, averaging 23.3 points and 8.4 assists when he was on the court. Ball's creativity and playmaking ability make him a centerpiece for the team. The Hornets are looking to build around Ball and further develop their offensive weapons.

Defense

Defensively, the Hornets aim to improve after allowing an average of 117.2 points per game last season. They are focused on enhancing their defensive strategies and tightening up their defense to compete at a higher level.

Injuries

The Hornets will be without Frank Ntilikina, James Bouknight, and Miles Bridges due to various reasons, including injury and suspension. These absences may challenge their depth, but they have young talents ready to step up.

Prediction

The Atlanta Hawks enter this season opener as the stronger team in various aspects. While both teams have their share of talent, the Hawks have an edge, and they are poised to secure a victory and cover the -3 points spread.

Offensively, the Hawks have the exceptional Trae Young, who is a scoring and playmaking machine. His ability to create opportunities for his teammates and score from anywhere on the court gives the Hawks an advantage. Dejounte Murray's presence adds depth to their backcourt, creating matchup problems for the Hornets.

Defensively, the Hawks have the reliable Clint Capela patrolling the paint, which can disrupt the Hornets' offensive flow. Their shot-blocking ability and rim protection are key strengths that the Hornets may struggle to overcome.

In conclusion, the Atlanta Hawks are well-equipped to start the season with a win and cover the -3 points spread. Their balanced offensive attack, led by Trae Young, and their defensive capabilities make them the stronger team in this matchup.

Pick: Hawks +3.5 -110

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